In Flanders there are only a few publications on art libraries and their problems. A major reason for this lack of reflection may lie in the absence of organised collaboration between art libraries in Flanders. In countries where associations of art libraries do exist, there is a platform for reflection on art librarianship. This paper is an attempt to initiate such a platform in Flanders. first discusses the origin of the notion 'art library' and further elaborates on the characteristics of art libraries. Next, an overview is provided of associations of art libraries internationally and their activities. The paper concludes with the possibilities for collaboration between art libraries in Flanders. compares the situation here with that in the Netherlands.