The mounted photographs, 35mm slides and lantern slides in the Visual Resources Collection of the Arts Library were formerly the principal teaching and research media for the Yale Department of Art History, the Yale School of Architecture, the Yale School of Art and related disciplines such as the Yale Divinity School and the Yale Department of Anthropology. Digitization of the collection is ongoing, with approximately 34% of the photographs, 35mm and lantern slides completed.

The collection provides comprehensive coverage of Western art and architecture from antiquity through the late 20th century, with especially rich coverage of major monuments and an emphasis on European architecture through the early 20th century. There is broad coverage of non-Western art and architecture, particularly Asian cultures and pre-Columbian civilizations. Included also are special order materials from vendors, museums or individual photographers requested by faculty for research projects. Special collections include architectural photographs by Pierre Devinoy and James Austin.

Access to the collection is restricted to current affiliates of Yale University. External researchers may be granted permission to consult the collection on site upon application for Library privileges.