Scope of Service

Scope of service

We can answer enquiries about using the National Art Library (NAL), searching the catalogue, NAL collections and other libraries’ holdings. We will always endeavour to help with subject enquiries in the field of art and design, especially when other sources of information have been exhausted, but due to limited resources we may not be able to fully answer without suggesting a visit to the NAL in person, or by someone on your behalf. We can consider requests and recommendations for books to acquire, and offers of donations. 

NAL staff cannot perform extensive original research, with enquiries limited to 30 minutes research time and six within one year. We aim to provide a reply to all enquiries within 20 working days. The response time is likely to be more immediate for enquiries about procedure.

Some material, including archives, children's books and Theatre & Performance research collections, is currently inaccessible, while we relocate them to new study rooms at V&A East. Full access resumes 31 May 2025.

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National Art Library Reading Room Opening Hours

10.00 - 17.00, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays.

 

Website Links

We may provide links to other websites in response to your question. Provision of these links does not constitute endorsement of the material, the organisation providing the site, or the continued accuracy of the link. The user of the link is responsible for downloading any material and for any fees or charges incurred. Downloading of images and/or text without the permission of the copyright owner may breach international copyright laws.