Now, let's dive into the treasure trove that is the National Gallery of Australia Research Library and Archives! This esteemed library has held its reputation as a pre-eminent art library in Australia since the time Margaret Shaw was appointed as the second Chief Librarian in 1978, three years before the Gallery’s grand opening!
What's spectacular here? Well, the Research Library is a resource powerhouse with a Reference Service open to the public online via the National Gallery website. This library has its fingers in many pies, partnering with Wikimedia Australia to host Know My Name edit-a-thons since 2020. These events are dedicated to shining a light on the contributions of Australian women artists.
The library’s holdings are a goldmine covering a wide span of art history. Some of their unique strengths include Aboriginal and Australian art, Asian textiles, global contemporary art, and specific gems like Ballets Russes, and rare finds from African, Oceanic, and Pre-Columbian art.
But wait, there's more! They have special collections of fragile and rare materials: everything from the 19th-century auction sales to the Paris Salon catalogues. And there's a massive Ephemera collection with over one million items, including press clippings, exhibition flyers, and more, all meticulously preserved.
The Archives and Manuscripts collection is nothing short of legendary. It contains personal papers from major Australian artists and significant institutions, capturing a vivid history of Australian visual arts. And for the audio-visual buffs, the library holds an invaluable collection of interviews and recordings, like the James Gleeson Oral History Collection, recognized by UNESCO for its cultural heritage significance.
So, while you’re here, take a moment to appreciate this incredible repository of art knowledge and history. It’s a paradise for art researchers and enthusiasts!
