The library’s collections reflect the museum’s key research areas and fields of work. The collection includes books, journals, yearbooks, exhibition catalogues, and guides, primarily from Norway and the Nordic countries, but also from other European countries. Publications produced by the museum itself—such as guides, exhibition catalogues, yearbooks, annual reports, and similar materials—are also available in the library.
The library holds a wide range of literature related to subjects such as costume and textiles, handicraft and craft techniques, architectural history, and church art. It also has a strong selection of Norwegian topographical literature, historical travel accounts by foreigners visiting Norway, and local history books.