Chinese art libraries reflect many of the changes which have occurred in the art and culture of this society over the past 100 years. While a visiting scholar at Nanjing Arts Institute, the author had the opportunity to interview librarians working in major art libraries in Beijing, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Shanghai and Shenyang. This first part of her report gives general background, describes the library collections in the institutions visited, and addresses questions of funding and staff. As the electronic era shrinks the world of art librarianship, and as we seek greater cooperation and expanded networking opportunities, knowledge about Chinese art libraries will provide the foundation for future partnerships and resource sharing.
Jason Steuber. Review of "A Perpetual Fire: John C. Ferguson and His Quest for Chinese Art and Culture" by Lara Jaishree Netting.