The library at Cornish College of the Arts boasts specialized collections tailored to the visual and performing arts. With over 34,000 books, 60 periodicals, and thousands of music scores, videos, and sound recordings, the library offers something for everyone. Whether delving into the intricacies of design and visual communications or exploring the depths of fine/studio arts, the library provides the materials needed to excel.

Enhance Your Studies

Design and Visual Communications: Students can utilize the vast collection of design books and digital image databases like Jstor as well as online tools like Josef Albers’ Interaction of Color to find inspiration and conduct research for projects. The library’s computer lab offers access to software tools essential for bringing designs to life.

Fine/Studio Arts: The library’s art books and journals, along with its digital collections such as A&Aeportal, help enable students study the works of both masters and contemporary artists. The media room, equipped with various viewing and copying equipment, ensures that visual resources are accessible in any format.

Music Performance: With an extensive range of music scores and sound recordings, the library supports the study and performance of music. Streaming music services like Naxos provide high-quality recordings to enhance practice sessions and learning.

Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts: From scripts to scholarly articles, the library supports research and production needs with resources like DigitalTheatre+. Its collection of scripts and academic writings on theatre arts deepens understanding of dramatic literature and performance techniques.

Musical Theatre: Combining resources from both music and theatre collections, the library helps students master their craft. Access to scores, scripts, and sound recordings aid in perfecting performances and expanding repertoires.

Dance: The library’s collection of dance literature spans historical texts to modern critiques. Digital databases like the International Encyclopedia of Dance and as well as the Dance Research Journal are available for researching contemporary practice, choreography, theory, and dance history.

Interior Architecture: With a range of design books and magazines such as Domus, the library covers the latest trends and foundational principles of interior design, providing inspiration and support for design projects.

Cinematography and Film/Video Production: The library’s collection of films, videos, and scholarly articles via such magazines as Film Quarterly supports the study of cinematic techniques and film history. Digital resources enable the streaming of essential films and documentaries.

Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology: From stagecraft manuals, the ACTS FACTS newsletter subscription, the costume design book collection, and lighting design books, the library supports the technical aspects of theatre production, helping students master theatre technology.

Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics and Special Effects: The library has video games, board games, books, as well as the student-requested publication Character Design Quarterly. The computer lab provides access to software and technical guides necessary for creating stunning visual projects.

Stay Connected and Continue Learning

Even after graduation, the library remains a valuable resource for alumni. With a yearly subscription of $50 a year, alumni can continue accessing the library’s vast physical (only) collections, staying updated with the latest in their fields and finding inspiration for ongoing creative endeavors.

Additional Services

• Reference and Instruction Services: Librarians are available for research assistance and offer Information Literacy sessions to help you navigate resources effectively.
• Interlibrary Loan: If the library doesn’t have what you need, they can borrow items from other institutions, ensuring you have access to a world of information.
• Online Catalog and Databases: The online catalog allows easy searching for books, articles, scores, and more. The comprehensive list of research databases provides access to electronic books, journal articles, digital images, and streaming media.
• Study Room: The library offers a study room that can be reserved for group projects, individual study, or collaborative work. This and other quiet spaces are equipped with essential amenities to support your study sessions and provide an environment conducive to concentration and productivity.

Visit the Library

Located on the 2nd Floor of the Main Campus Center, 1000 Lenora Street, Seattle, WA, the library invites students and alumni to explore its offerings (or just come and relax). Please check the website for the current library hours. For questions or assistance, contact the library via chat, text at 855-485-4542, email at libraryref@cornish.edu or phone at (206) 726-5145.

The Library at Cornish College of the Arts is a cornerstone of artistic achievement. By visiting, students and alumni can tap into a wealth of resources, explore new ideas, and let their creativity soar. Unlock the power of the library and discover the greatness within!