Library and Archive
The National Gallery Library and Archive holds world-class collections relating to the history of painting, including exhibition catalogues, rare books, and institutional records created over the course of our 200-year history
Visiting information
We are open to all. To book a visit or ask about collection items, email [email protected]. Please read our visitor regulations for more information about registration and using the Library and Archive.
We can answer enquiries about our Library and Archive, including the history of the Gallery and its Collection, but we are unable to give general information about art or artists or to give valuations of works of art.
Notice of temporary closure
The National Gallery Library and Archive will be closing to visitors from 2 April 2026 while building works are undertaken on our new and enlarged Research Centre. We aim to offer a limited service in temporary accommodation later in the year and to reopen fully in 2028.
During the period of closure, we will maintain an email enquiry service as well as our online catalogues and digital resources.
Making an appointment
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These collections are open to the public by appointment Tuesday–Friday. |
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Search the Library and Archive
About the Library and Archive
Explore an overview of the Gallery’s Library and Archive.
Search the Library catalogue
Search the Gallery’s library of 100,000 printed volumes covering the history of European painting from the 13th to the early 20th century.
Search the Archive catalogue
Search the National Gallery Archive containing records of the Gallery's activities from its foundation in 1824 to the present day.
Digital resources
Browse the Gallery’s growing number of digital resources relating to its history and collections
Board minutes (1828-1918)
Eight volumes of the minutes of the Board of Trustees and the corresponding indexes.
Agnew's stock books
Eleven stock books from the archive of Thos. Agnew and Sons. Dating from 1853 until the beginning of the First World War, the stock books provide information about the paintings, prices and clients that Agnew’s dealt with.