Containing some 130,000 art historical books, periodicals and exhibition catalogues, the Book Library supports both undergraduate and postgraduate study at the Institute and has a national and international role as a research library for art history. It is one of the major collections of art historical books and periodicals in the country (the others of similar standing being the National Art Library at the Victoria & Albert Museum, the British Library and the libraries of the Tate and National Galleries). It is the largest on-site library in the subject area in a higher education institution. Besides the 400 students and teaching staff of the Institute, the Library has approximately 2,000 other visitors a year.

We need to maintain its book buying budget to keep up with the constantly evolving needs of the Institute’s lecturers and students. We are seeking donations to our Book Purchase Fund — any amount will be most helpful. A gift form is enclosed with details of how to give. For further information contact the Development Office on 020 7845 4690 or development@courtauld.ac.uk.

Sophie Hussey and Ann Sproat