Using the Rolvaag Library Special Collections

An artist's book can take on a variety of forms. It can look like a traditional book--text printed on paper and cased in a binding. It can be more sculptural like a pop-up book. It can even challenge our idea of what a book is or should be. Artists use a variety of techniques to produce their works, and while some are produced on a large scale, most are produced in limited editions.

In our collection you will find fine press or letter press books, accordion books, embroidered books, flip books, a variety of books that represent the numerous ways you can create an artist's book. Our collections addresses many issues and themes, but we are particularly strong in art activism and social justice. This focus is represented across forms with an emphasis on broadsides.

If you're interested in book making, this playlist has a variety of video tutorials.

You can digitally browse many of our artists' books, but all of them can be found in the library catalog, Catalyst. Additionally, take a look at this student-curated virtual exhibit about artists' books.

Image of Metamorphosis 5 by Islam Aly