Van Alen Institute Reading Room

On May 8, 2010, we opened our Reading Room at Van Alen Institute. As part of our multi-phased Design Archive launch, we're making a selection of unique archival materials available, complemented by our collection of design-focused publications and periodicals. Featuring a cross-section of seminal books, journals, magazines, daily and weekly newspapers, pamphlets, and more, our reading room provides a much-needed space for research beyond the academy. In addition, the Reading Room will feature a growing set of portfolios from emerging designers who have participated in our new program Design Speed Dating. Starting Summer 2010, the Reading Room will host a new series of programs featuring design critics, practitioners, and journalists. 

The Reading Room library will be open to the public Monday through Friday from 10am to 5pm. If you wish to peruse our archival materials, please request an appointment at least one week in advance by emailing vai@vanalen.org. In your request, please reference those materials to which you would like to have access so that VAI staff may prepare and advise accordingly.