the getty research institute (gri) is "dedicated to furthering knowledge and advancing understanding of the visual arts." among other holdings, gri's research library contains over 900,000 volumes of books, periodicals, and auction catalogs; special collections; and two million photographs of art and architecture. gri's other activities include exhibitions, publications, and a residential scholars program. at the getty center, gri is located to the west of the museum. the round building encircles a landscaped garden and is located to the west of the central garden. the main entrance of gri is connected by a terrace to the main arrival court of the museum, with outdoor sculptures placed along the route. gri has one art gallery on its entrance level that is open to the public.