Maximising art resources: the common goal of the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and its Art Library

Abstract

The importance of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation in the development of artistic projects and art institutions in Portugal should be seen in the context of the evolution of the political and cultural scene in this country during the 20th century. The Foundation houses two major art museums and, by developing art information resources, has helped fill cultural gaps at times when official support has been scarce. It has also played a key role in coping with the growing cultural demand of the last few decades, both in terms of art activities and art information. The Art Library and the Gulbenkian Museum are placing special emphasis on the need to integrate library and museum information resources, taking advantage of current technologies, in order to improve the services offered to users. Strategies envisaged by the Art Library demonstrate how this convergence can enhance the value of the different kinds of art resources each holds.