Special Collections in Hornbake library is home to a large selection of artists’ books, which can be found within the Literature and Rare Books collections.
Artists' books utilize books as a form of creative expression. Experimenting with traditional elements of a book, including structure, design, materials, and printing processes, artists’ books are wholly unique creations. In contrast to mass produced books, book artists have more control over artistic expression and the content of their books, which are often handcrafted and are produced in limited numbers. Some artists’ books are produced in editions of less than 50 or can be one-of-a-kind, making them truly rare. Artists’ books straddle the line between traditional books and works of art, and challenge us to consider the question “What is a book?”
The artists' books in Special Collections in Hornbake Library cover a wide range of topics and design elements. The collection highlights the creativity of book arts, with works that feature handmade paper, letterpress printing, hand binding, or experimental structure like sculpture books, pop-up books, and miniature books. The emphasis is on local artists, private press works, and artists’ books that touch on themes of social justice, current events, and book arts.
The works presented in this guide are from the Literature and Rare Books Collection in Special Collections and University Archives, located in Hornbake Library. For more information about our holdings, please contact us!
