It is becoming increasingly clear how valuable the Dutch Graffiti Library’s collection is for research, education, and the cultural heritage of the Netherlands. The collection maps the development of graffiti (in all its forms) and shows the impact this culture has had on art, design, and society. In addition, the collection provides plenty of inspiration and insight for museums, exhibitions, education, and the graffiti community itself.
As a contemporary library and active knowledge platform, we will make our collection widely accessible in 2026 to museum professionals, researchers, educational institutions, and other interested parties. Key principles in this are co-creation, shared ownership, and new ways of presentation. We do this by connecting with existing initiatives and contributing our expertise and drive. Some concrete examples include:
Participation in the European program – The Europe Challenge
The Europe Challenge is an annual program that brings together teams from libraries and communities across Europe. Together, they develop, share, and implement creative solutions for urgent social, digital, and climate challenges. The program is made possible by the European Cultural Foundation and its partners. The Dutch Graffiti Library is participating, together with Inholland and OBA Next Lab Sluisbuurt in Amsterdam.
Part of the collective – Culture Capsule
Culture Capsule is a collective of hip-hop hubs, urban houses, researchers, and creators who are jointly building the shared memory of hip-hop culture in the Netherlands. Recording these stories is now crucial to prevent their loss. The Dutch Graffiti Library plays a role as a hub and explores how best to contribute to the development of the documentation center. Various organizations and OGs are already involved.
Archival collaboration – City Archives Amsterdam
The City Archives Amsterdam is actively seeking archives that represent underrepresented groups and subcultures. They emphasize their interest particularly in material from communities whose stories and imagery are scarcely or not yet represented in the collection. The Dutch Graffiti Library has already deposited its archive on the Kempering parking garage in Amsterdam Zuidoost with the City Archives, and discussions are ongoing about a follow-up project.