Leeds art libraries on the map

Librarians around Leeds have developed the Art Researchers’ Guide to Leeds, a new book that features treasures such as centuries-old sketches of Kirkstall Abbey and photos of the Cottingley Fairies.

There are botanical illustrations so realistic you feel compelled to stroke petals, and illuminated maps, manuscripts and charters with the paintings of Queen Elizabeth I, whose elaborate signature officially classifies as a work of art itself. Many of these gems are not online.

"Leeds has fantastic collections on architecture, art, and design, but researchers don't know how to get their hands on everything they might need - this guide helps solve that problem," says Rose Roberto, subject librarian for fine art, cultural studies and design, and guide editor. Through a visual narrative, the guide points the way to 10 libraries and repositories with art and design resources. Indexed by over 80 subjects, it includes a citywide map, navigation icons, a time-saving subject index to collections and colour images of each place.

"What makes the guide useful is the map and index. If you're doing research on fashion, for example, the visual index shows which places have the right material, and whether it's in book, archives or audiovisual format," says Rachel Myers, former librarian for design at the University.

Contributors come from all over Leeds, including experts from the Henry Moore Institute, the Royal Armouries and West Yorkshire Archive Service. University contributors are the Library's Chris Sheppard, Jill Winder from the University of Leeds International Textiles Archive (ULITA), and retired staff Ben Read and Peter Meredith from the Schools of Fine Art and English, respectively. The new Marks & Spencer Archive also has an entry.

The Art Researchers' Guide to Leeds is on sale for £5.95 at the Stanley and Audrey Burton Gallery and ULITA, the Henry Moore Institute, Leeds City Art Library and Gallery and Blackwells.