Welcome to the New Bedford Library's Online Collections Database!
About the Art Collection
Exhibitions and the acquisition of art have been integral functions of the New Bedford Free Public Library since construction of its first library building in 1857, and in fact a portrait of William Rotch Sr. was included in the very first purchase of items that created the library as we know it today. The art collection now includes work by such nationally and internationally noted artists as Albert Bierstadt, John James Audubon, William Bradford, R. Swain Gifford, William Allen Wall, Walton Ricketson, Bela Pratt, Clifford Ashley and many others. The art collection is on public view throughout the Main Library, with changing exhibits mounted in the 3rd floor gallery cases.
Tips for Searching
This site will allow you to search the library's art and historic objects collection. If you want to browse the entire catalog, click the Art Collection button. You can search from there by entering in your keyword(s) or phrase into the top search bar. Phrase searching, wildcards (*) as well as AND/OR statements are available when performing catalog searches. To view photographs or other graphic archival materials, please visit Digital Commonwealth
Keyword Search
The Keyword Search button allows you to perform a general search across multiple fields for any catalog records online. Keyword searches use OR as the default connector between words (e.g. a search for Bark Wanderer will return records associated with Bark OR Wanderer). If you want to find records where both keywords are found, type in AND between the two words. To search for a specific phrase, be sure to put the phrase within quotes (e.g. "Birds of America"). You can also use the asterisk (*) as a wildcard (e.g. a search for histor* would come up with records containing history, histories, historical, etc.). Searches are not case sensitive.
Advanced Search
The Advanced Search button can help you be more specific with your search. You can search for a word or phrase within a particular search category or use multiple categories to further narrow down your search results. For example, searching White in the People field will bring up any records associated with a member of the White family, without having to sift through black & white photographs. You can also search People and Creator records through Advanced Search. Phrase searching with quotes and use of wildcards (*) are available in Advanced Search.
Random Images
The Random Images button is a great way to just browse the collection. Each Random Images page displays a random assortment of images from the records online. If something piques your interest, click the thumbnail to view a larger version of the image.