Art libraries in Romania

Abstract

Specialised art libraries emerged in Romania during the 19th century. Today, all of Romania’s art libraries are facing similar problems, the result of years of isolation from the international community and from one another, compounded by an absence (until recently) of education for librarianship, and by a continuing lack of money and adequate accomodation. In addition, different kinds of art library are confronted by problems specific to their functions. However, the renewal of contact with the wider world is bringing many benefits; work has started on a common automated system, initially involving a handful of art libraries; and three art libraries are trying to establish a Romanian art libraries society. (The text of a paper presented to the Annual Conference of ARLIS/NA at San Francisco, January 28th — February 3rd 1993. Please note that this report dates from over two years ago. We eagerly await further news.)