Picturing Books Database

We are excited to announce the launch of the Picturing Books Database. Our goal is to make this service an affordable option for everyone.

Who is this service for?

Public librarians, media specialists, educators, researchers, students, and parents will find the database useful.

What is special about this service?

This is not just repackaging of data. This service combines data from dozens of print sources, thousands of picture books, and countless publisher, author, and illustrator websites. We spent over two years developing this tool because we think there is a lack of quality resources exploring the art of the picture book. At a time of transition for picture books, we think this tool will bring more picture books and readers together by helping people find just the right title.

How many records are in the database?

The database features bibliographic information for 10,000 records at launch. We will be adding more every day. If you see an error or would like to suggest a title/author/publisher, please email us.

The database:

• is searchable by fields specific to picture books, including artistic media and style, illustrator, author, designer, and format.
• features subject access, awards, theme, series, and characters.
• features books from the United States and other countries.
• features out-of-print, unusual, and hard-to-find titles.
• features titles before 1900 of historical significance.

Weekly Rate

Annual Subscription Rates

Individual subscriptions provide access for a single user. Level 1 and 2 subscriptions provide access for multiple users, such as staff/patron, media specialist/teacher, and  faculty/student.

All annual subscriptions have 24/7 access and expire 365 days after date payment is processed.

INDIVIDUAL -- $49

LEVEL 1 -- $199

• Public Libraries (1-15 branches)
• Schools (under 50 schools in district)
• Colleges and Universities (enrollment FTE under 5,000)
• Organizations (under 500 members)

LEVEL 2 -- $249

• Public Libraries (over 15 branches)
• Schools (over 50 schools in district)
• Colleges and Universities (enrollment FTE over 5,000)
• Organizations (over 500 members)

Future Enhancements

Next year we have several enhancements planned, including

• the addition of titles originally published in English available in other languages
• author/illustrator pages
• storytime/curriculum connections
• reviews from established reviews journals
• character education and literacy connections
• Lexile scores