Aaron Siskind Library

The PRC is pleased to offer a searchable catalog of our 5,000+ books, recently available online. Click the above link to start browsing the collection.

Starting in July 2012, photographer and retired librarian Vivien Goldman spearheaded an effort to re-catalog the entire holdings of the PRC Aaron Siskind Library. Working with interns Ian Sloat and Andrew Misler from Simmons College, the task is nearing completion with only our Special Collections remaining to catalog.

PRC library materials are non-circulating and for use in-house. The collection is open to student groups by appointment and to the general public. Patrons are required to leave backpacks at the front desk and to place books on the reshelving cart (or leave them on the reading table) after use. Please note that there is no copier or scanner available presently. Please see full policies listed below.

The PRC’s library recognizes the career and contributions of photographer
Aaron Siskind (1903 – 1991), who as a teacher and photographer was a significant influence on photographic practice in New England. During the last twenty years of his life he was based in the area, and participated regularly with programs and events at the PRC. Among many donors to the PRC’s library, his gifts jumpstarted what has become a unique collection in the Boston photography community.

The Library was named in Siskind’s honor shortly after his death, though it had been amassing books from the PRC’s early days. By December of 1980 there were some 2,000 items in the collection. Today, with gifts and acquisitions, the collection numbers almost 5,000 monographs, exhibition catalogs, surveys, critical histories, and other photography-related publications and periodicals.



Policies
Library patrons may look at books in the library, but note that books are not available for circulation. Patrons must leave backbacks and other large bags at the front desk of the building. The library, like our gallery, is open to the public and membership is not required. A donation is suggested.

Hours
The Siskind Library is open during regular gallery hours. Additionally, it
may be accessible at other times, including Mondays and periods between exhibition installations; please call 617.975.0600 for an appointment.

Donations
The Library would be pleased to receive donations of photography books in good condition. We will provide a letter acknowledging your gift, though we are not able to offer appraisals to determine value.

LIbrary Membership (Suspended until further notice)
If you are part of a library, gallery, or museum and are interested in subscribing to our newsletter, Loupe, please consider purchasing a library membership.