Explore the Art Library

The Ringling Art Library is open to members from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and the public from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Please email [email protected] for an appointment.

Established in 1946, the Art Library is one of the largest and most comprehensive art research libraries in the southeastern United States. Located in the Education Center, the collection strengths reflect those of the museum’s collections and The Ringling experience.

The Reading Room overlooks the scenic grounds of the museum and provides a comfortable area for reading and research. While the collection does not circulate, the Art Library is available to the public and the stacks are open for browsing. Some materials are available to university students through Interlibrary Loan.

  • Total holdings of 70,000 items
  • Specialized art databases, including auction-results databases, and access to FSU 600+ databases
  • Books and other materials spanning the history of art and architecture
  • Extensive holdings in the areas of European art, especially Renaissance and Baroque; the circus; studio glass; museum studies, collectors and collecting; and Asian art
  • The personal library of John and Mable Ringling
  • A collection of rare books from the 16th century to the present
  • Auction catalogues from the 1930s to the present
  • Juvenile literature about art
  • An Artists’ File of contemporary artists
  • More than 100 journal/magazine subscriptions

Library Catalog

Search the the library collection through the FSU Libraries Catalog which includes books, journals, music, movies and more…

View Library Catalog

Research Guides

LibGuides are subject research guides that provide a general introduction to each topic, with books available in the Art Library, as well as links to electronic sources, such as articles, websites, and videos

Digital Collections

The Ringling Art Library’s digital assets are available online within Florida State University’s digital repository, known as Diginole.

View the Collections

Literati Book Club

Join our book group to discuss books about art and subjects reflecting The Ringling’s collections. This program is free.

To join contact [email protected].

Learn more

Questions?

We are available to assist with your art history research! Just complete the inquiry form and we will get back to you.

Contact the Library