Listed below are a few of the books that have frequently been recommended by designers. 

Or, you can see what your favorite designers like to read using the Designers & Books web site.

Something to add to this list?  Contact Laurin.

Browsing can be a fine way to get a sense of how much is available, to make interesting discoveries, and simply to relax.  However, it is usually not a very effective way to find a specific book, article, or picture. 

Please always ask at a library reference desk or use the online Ask-A-Librarian service if you need help locating what you need.

As with most American libraries, Penn State organizes books and bound volumes of magazines by the Library of Congress Classification System. The medium is an important part of the organization.  Unfortunately, this means that books on a versatile designer might be in many different places: under graphic arts, drawing, typography, posters, etc.  Nonethless you will notice some clumps of good graphic design books between NC1 to NC1860 and typography under Z246 to Z260.

The table below contain locations within Pattee Library at the University Park campus, but the call numbering and categories are also useful at any Penn State library location.  There are also exceptions to the UP locations, so again, ASK if you can not find what you need