Irving Shapiro Library

Named for Irving Shapiro, a distinguished fine artist and watercolor painting instructor and former Director of the American Academy of Art College from 1945 to 1994, the Academy’s Irving Shapiro Library is a center for lifelong learning. An extension of the classroom, the library is a space for students to read, study, research, and explore information about the art world. The library’s print and virtual collections support students’ information needs across the curriculum. Students may browse or borrow from a collection of more than 3,400 books and 40 periodicals on a variety of subjects, including fine and commercial art and the humanities. The library also subscribes to electronic databases that provide students with on- and off-campus access to a constantly updated source of full-text articles and art history images. Our librarian provides a variety of services to help students find, evaluate and use information and images effectively and ethically. Information literacy instruction is incorporated throughout the curriculum, including studio art and academic courses, and individual research assistance is available on a drop-in basis or by appointment. The library also regularly sponsors educational and recreational programming. The constantly evolving art world and changing technology demand current information and research skills. Our library continues to expand its collections and services to provide a greater range of resources to our students as they prepare for careers as professional artists. Many library resources, including the library catalog and article and image databases, can be accessed online at the library’s website, library.aaart.edu.

New Library Website HERE.