The library forms an integral part of the Istituto Universitario Olandese di Storia dell'Arte, founded in 1958. It possesses a rich and well-developed collection of scholarly texts on the history of art and civilization. Its main areas of specialization are centered on Italian art and art of the Low Countries. Particular attention is given to artistic relationships between Northern and Southern Europe. In addition, there is special emphasis on the sections devoted to the graphic arts, drawing, and iconology. Notable collections in the areas of modern and contemporary art and architecture have also increased substantially. As a complement to library resources, the Istitute provides access to its ample Photographic Archive, composed of several photographic collections of notable historical importance, and research tools such as the Bibliografia dell'Arte Grafica and the DIAL (Decimal Index to the Art of the Low Countries).
The library is composed of more than 67,000 titles which include: ca. 250 periodicals, of which 120 are currently received; 1,000 items represented by microfiche, CD-ROMs and videos; ca. 300 pre-19th century imprints, and over 5,000 art auction catalogs.
The library also possesses an archive of over 70,000 photographs.