Design Museum Library and Archives: Scandinavia's Premier Resource
For researchers, students, and design enthusiasts, the museum houses a world-class repository of knowledge. It is the largest library in Scandinavia dedicated specifically to decorative arts (the design and manufacture of functional objects) and industrial design (the professional practice of designing products for mass production). Serving as a museum library, a research hub, and the Danish central library for its field, this institution provides an unparalleled depth of information for the general public.
The Library Experience
The library is designed to be an accessible space for academic study and casual exploration. Visitors can access a vast collection of over 1,000 journals, providing a comprehensive historical and contemporary look at design trends and theories. For those seeking the most current insights, the museum subscribes to 75 journals and magazines, with the latest issues available for reading in the dedicated reading room.
Beyond its role as a quiet study space, the reading room serves as a dynamic venue for public lectures. These presentations focus on design-related topics and integrate materials from both the museum's physical collections and the library's extensive archives.
Specialized Archives and Collections
In addition to the main library, the museum hosts specialized repositories on the first floor. These include the Danish Design Archive and the Poster Collection, which preserve critical visual and historical records of design evolution.
Key Facts
- Regional Status: Largest library in Scandinavia for decorative arts and industrial design.
- Collection Size: Contains more than 1,000 journals.
- Current Subscriptions: 75 active journals and magazines.
- Public Access: Open to the general public Tuesday through Friday.
- Specialized Sites: Danish Design Archive and Poster Collection are located on the first floor.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Opening Days | Tuesday – Friday |
| Opening Hours | 11:00 – 17:00 |
| Access | Open to the general public |
| Primary Focus | Decorative arts and industrial design |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can visit the library?
The library is open to the general public, serving as a research library and a central library for the field of design.
What are the library's opening hours?
The library is open from Tuesday to Friday, between 11:00 and 17:00.
What can I read in the reading room?
Visitors can read the latest issues of the 75 journals and magazines that the museum subscribes to.
Where are the archives located?
The Danish Design Archive and the Poster Collection are both located on the first floor of the museum.
Does the library host events?
Yes, the reading room hosts public lectures on design-related topics that utilize the museum and library collections.