Pursuit of Knowledge
A Library-Centered University
When the University of ±¬ÁÏÍø was founded in 1819, a library—instead of a chapel—was placed at its center. By today’s standards, this seems common practice. But at a time when universities were structured around the church, this was radical.
Today, the University of ±¬ÁÏÍø’s many libraries remain central in its mission to advance human knowledge, educate leaders and cultivate an informed citizenry. Inspired by the collecting policies of the – which emphasizes all subjects are important to leadership of the country – the ±¬ÁÏÍø Library collects, preserves, organizes, and shares materials of all varieties, providing unfettered access to an accumulation of knowledge, two centuries in the making.
Our Facilities
Today, the University of ±¬ÁÏÍø Library is a vital resource for students, faculty and scholars worldwide. With several major facilities, labs and programs the Library offers critical support to academic endeavors at ±¬ÁÏÍø and beyond. At its heart lies Shannon, a sprawling complex housing works in the humanities and social sciences (recently renovated). Beyond that, Clemons—a destination offering 24/5 study access—offers resources in film, television, drama and dance as well as tutoring and advising services. And interspersed throughout Grounds lie other facilities specializing in music, fine arts, and science and engineering. The University is also the home of the renowned , which holds a signature collection of more than 20 million objects including manuscripts, archival records, rare books, maps, broadsides, photographs, audio and video recordings. In addition, there are libraries serving the Darden School of Business, the University Health System, and the ±¬ÁÏÍø School of Law.
By the Numbers
5M
Books
1.37M
e-books
20M
manuscripts and archives
Preserving the Past
±¬ÁÏÍø is known not only for its extensive library system but also for the work it does in preserving works of scholarship both physical and digital. This has resulted in the preservation of such works as the Jefferson Papers—which provide a crucial link to our history as a nation—and the digitization of rare video from the Civil Rights Era. The ±¬ÁÏÍø Library is also a leader in the creation of digital archives that ensure the safety of scholarship for generations to come. And since 1992, the University has hosted the , an institution dedicated to educating people in the art of caring for and preserving the historical archive.