The Dutch library in Paris

Abstract

Since its foundation by Frits Lugt the Fondation Custodia/Institut Néerlandais has been a well-known institution on the Paris scene. It is one of many foreign cultural institutes in Paris, some of which - and specifically their libraries - are described in this article. The unique character of the Dutch library is highlighted, as well as the way in which it is adapting to new techniques. Of particular interest are the plans for the development of special links with other art libraries, such as the Institut national d’histoire de l’art (INHA) in Paris and the Rijksbureau voor Kunsthistorische Documentatie (RKD) in the Hague.