Art History Research Guide: Books and eBooks

These are just a few of the reference books available in the Reference Collection:

Subject headings are a tool used to approach standard search terminology. It is important to note that subject records do not necessarily match materials in a library's collection, but they can be very helpful!

Here are a few examples of general art subject headings, which might be useful in designing your own search terms:

• Architecture, Prehistoric
• Art History and criticism
• Art History 19th century
• Painting--Exhibitions

This is just a basic list to get you started. You can also do subject searches by period ("medieval"), movement ("impressionism"), style ("victorian"), or by artist name ("Picasso, Pablo"). Can't find what you're looking for? Ask a Librarian!

Do you wish to browse the collection? Use these call numbers to help pinpoint the subject area that interests you. Our general collection of art materials is located on the lower level of the library (in Kindlon Hall) in the 700 area:

710    Civic & landscape art

720    Architecture

730    Plastic arts (sculpture)

740    Drawing & decorative art

750    Painting

760    Graphic arts

770    Photography

Can't find the book you need in the BenU Library's collection? No problem! Request it through I-Share at no cost to you. If I-Share doesn't have it, contact us. We can almost always get you what you need. Learn more on our Interlibrary Loan page.

To borrow items from I-Share, follow the steps below:

1. Sign in to BenSearch.
2. Search All I-Share Libraries and click the item you'd like to borrow.
3. Under How To Get It, click I-Share. Select your preferred Pickup Location and Pickup Institution and click Send Request.
4. Use your BenSearch Account to renew items or check the status of your requests.

Lisle: (630) 829-6057
Mesa: (480) 878-7514
Toll Free: (877) 575-6050
Email: libref@ben.edu

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