Best Museum Studies & Museology Books of 2025

All the Beauty in the World: The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Me is a captivating memoir by Patrick Bringley, a former museum guard who spent a decade at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Bringley takes the reader on a journey through the museum's hidden treasures and the subculture of museum guards. As he guards delicate artifacts from Egypt to Rome, he comes to appreciate the beauty of the museum and the people who make it possible. This book is a must-read for art lovers and those interested in the inner workings of one of the world's greatest institutions.

This book, "Autodisciplina: Descubre el Poder de la disciplina, para Cambiar de hábitos con La ciencia de la autodisciplina, aumentando la productividad, fuerza ... (Actitud de acero) (Spanish Edition)", is a must-read for anyone struggling with procrastination or lack of discipline. The author explains the concept of self-discipline and how it can be developed to overcome negative habits and increase productivity. The book covers topics such as building self-esteem, taking action, adopting proactive habits, and using the power of the mind to achieve goals. It is a well-written and insightful guide that can help readers change their lives for the better.

The California Field Atlas by Heyday is a lavishly illustrated compendium that takes readers off the beaten path and outside normal conceptions of California. Based on decades of exploring the backcountry of the Golden State, artist-adventurer Obi Kaufmann blends science and art to illuminate the multifaceted array of living, connected systems like no book has done before. The effect is staggeringly beautiful, making it the ultimate road trip companion and love letter to the place. This book is a must-read for environmentalism book lovers.

The Coasts of California: A California Field Atlas by Obi Kaufmann is a beautiful blend of science and art, showcasing the 1,200 miles of California's shoreline in Kaufmann's signature watercolor style. The book takes the reader on a journey through the natural wonders of the coast, exploring the lives of sea creatures, the shifting of rocks and sand, and the special habitats found on California's islands. The book also includes detailed maps of parks along the California Coastal Trail, making it a valuable resource for any coast-lover. This book is a geographic epic, an odyssey in nature, and a grand and glorious tribute to California's stunning coastline.

The National Gallery: Masterpieces of Painting is a beautifully designed book that offers an exceptional introduction to European paintings from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. With over 250 paintings from the National Gallery, London, including works by Leonardo, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh, this book provides an informative and visually rich survey of European painting. Gabriele Finaldi, the Director of the National Gallery, London, authored this book with copious illustrations and brief, informative texts. It is a must-read for art lovers and collectors alike.

The Louvre: The History, The Collections, The Architecture is a stunning book that takes readers on a journey through the history of the world-renowned museum. With over 600 pages, readers can explore the Louvre's magnificent halls, galleries, and artwork, including hidden gems. This book offers a unique experience, showcasing the artworks in the context of the beautiful galleries and spaces where they live, giving readers a similar experience to being at the Louvre. The book also explores the fascinating history surrounding the museum, from its beginnings as a fortress to becoming a "temple of the arts." Overall, this book is a must-have for art lovers and anyone interested in the history of one of the world's preeminent museums.

The sixth edition of Museum Registration Methods is a comprehensive guide to registration and collections management for museums, covering everything from acquisition to deaccessioning. With contributions from a variety of museums and specializations, this edition includes updated sections on digital practices while still maintaining its strong foundational areas. The book is straightforward and useful for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to the field. It also includes a comprehensive resource list, glossary, hypothetical scenarios, and model collection forms. Overall, this book is an essential reference for all types and sizes of museums, making it a unique and valuable addition to any museum industry bookshelf.

The Power of Mental Discipline: A Practical Guide to Controlling Your Thoughts, Increasing Your Willpower and Achieving More by Ian Tuhovsky is a simple, step-by-step self-discipline book that teaches readers how to break bad habits, develop mental discipline, and achieve their goals. The author emphasizes the importance of willpower in achieving success, and offers practical tips and strategies to help readers build mental toughness, positive discipline, and change their mindset. Overall, this book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to develop greater self-discipline and achieve their goals.

The Monuments Men: Allied Heroes, Nazi Thieves and the Greatest Treasure Hunt in History is a gripping account of the brave Monuments Men, a group of art experts who risked their lives to save thousands of years of culture during World War II. The book follows six of these men as they race against time to prevent the Nazis from destroying Europe's finest art treasures. Written by Robert M. Edsel, the Founder and President of the Monuments Men Foundation for the Preservation of Art, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in art history and the heroic efforts of those who fought to preserve it.

The Little(r) Museums of Paris is a charming guidebook that takes readers on a journey through the hidden gems of Paris. Rather than focusing on the city's main attractions, the book explores the smaller, offbeat destinations such as artists' studios and scientific museums. Each entry includes a short history, watercolor illustrations, and a miniature map, making it a great resource for both residents and visitors. Emma Jacobs' deeply-researched yet approachable writing and captivating illustrations encourage greater appreciation of the cultural diversity and history that give Paris its unique charm.