The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Library is one of the largest and most comprehensive research libraries in the United States. With a rich history dating back to 1867, the library has evolved to become a hub for academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement. The library's vast collections, state-of-the-art facilities, and expert staff make it an indispensable resource for students, faculty, and researchers across various disciplines.
Overview of the Library’s Collections and Services
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Library boasts an impressive collection of over 14 million volumes, including books, journals, manuscripts, and digital resources. The library’s holdings are diverse and comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects, from the humanities and social sciences to engineering, agriculture, and natural sciences. In addition to its physical collections, the library provides access to numerous digital resources, including e-books, online journals, and databases.
The library offers a range of services to support the academic and research needs of its users. These services include research assistance, instruction, and consultation; document delivery and interlibrary loan; and digital scholarship and publishing support. The library also provides specialized services, such as data management and curation, geographic information systems (GIS) support, and digital media production.
Special Collections and Archives
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Library is home to several special collections and archives, which house rare and unique materials that support research and instruction in various fields. These collections include the Rare Book and Manuscript Library, the Illinois History and Lincoln Collections, and the Sousa Archives and Center for American Music. The library’s special collections and archives are a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and students, offering a unique window into the past and providing insights into the cultural, social, and historical context of various subjects.
| Collection | Description |
|---|---|
| Rare Book and Manuscript Library | A collection of rare and unique books, manuscripts, and other materials, including works by notable authors and historical figures |
| Illinois History and Lincoln Collections | A collection of materials related to the history of Illinois and the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln |
| Sousa Archives and Center for American Music | A collection of materials related to American music, including the archives of John Philip Sousa and other notable musicians |
Library Facilities and Technology
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Library has several facilities that provide a comfortable and productive environment for study, research, and collaboration. The library’s main building, the Main Library, is a state-of-the-art facility that features modern study spaces, advanced technology, and a range of amenities, including a café, a computer lab, and a media production studio. The library also has several branch libraries, including the Undergraduate Library, the Grainger Engineering Library, and the Funk ACES Library, each of which serves the specific needs of its respective user community.
The library is committed to providing access to cutting-edge technology and digital resources, including 3D printing, virtual reality, and data visualization tools. The library's website and online platforms provide 24/7 access to a wide range of digital resources, including e-books, online journals, and databases, as well as research guides, tutorials, and other support materials.
Library Instruction and Outreach
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Library is dedicated to providing instruction and outreach services that support the academic and research needs of its users. The library offers a range of instruction programs, including credit courses, workshops, and one-on-one consultations, designed to help students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their academic pursuits. The library also engages in outreach activities, such as community events, exhibitions, and partnerships with other campus units, to promote its resources and services and to build relationships with its user community.
Key Points
- The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Library is a comprehensive research library with a rich history and a strong commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.
- The library's collections are diverse and comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects and including over 14 million volumes.
- The library offers a range of services, including research assistance, instruction, and consultation; document delivery and interlibrary loan; and digital scholarship and publishing support.
- The library's special collections and archives are a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and students, offering a unique window into the past and providing insights into the cultural, social, and historical context of various subjects.
- The library is committed to providing access to cutting-edge technology and digital resources, including 3D printing, virtual reality, and data visualization tools.
Supporting Research and Scholarship
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Library is dedicated to supporting research and scholarship across various disciplines. The library’s expert staff provide research assistance, instruction, and consultation services, helping users to navigate the library’s collections and resources and to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their academic pursuits. The library also offers a range of digital scholarship and publishing support services, including data management and curation, digital media production, and online publishing platforms.
The library's commitment to supporting research and scholarship is reflected in its strategic plan, which prioritizes the development of new services and resources that meet the evolving needs of its user community. The library is also engaged in a range of collaborative initiatives, including partnerships with other campus units, such as the Graduate College and the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, to promote interdisciplinary research and scholarship.
Library Assessment and Evaluation
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Library is committed to ongoing assessment and evaluation, using a range of metrics and methodologies to measure the effectiveness of its services and resources. The library’s assessment and evaluation efforts are guided by its strategic plan, which prioritizes the development of new services and resources that meet the evolving needs of its user community. The library also engages in national and international initiatives, such as the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) and the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), to stay current with best practices and to contribute to the development of new standards and guidelines for library assessment and evaluation.
| Assessment Metric | Description |
|---|---|
| Gate counts | A measure of the number of users who visit the library |
| Circulation statistics | A measure of the number of items borrowed from the library |
| Database usage statistics | A measure of the number of times library databases are accessed |
| Surveys and focus groups | A measure of user satisfaction and feedback |
What are the library's hours of operation?
+The library's hours of operation vary depending on the location and time of year. Please check the library's website for the most up-to-date information.
How do I access the library's online resources?
+To access the library's online resources, you will need to log in with your university NetID and password. Please contact the library's IT department if you have any issues accessing the library's online resources.
Can I borrow materials from other libraries?
+Yes, the library offers interlibrary loan services, which allow you to borrow materials from other libraries. Please contact the library's interlibrary loan department for more information.
In conclusion, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Library is a vibrant and dynamic institution that plays a critical role in supporting the academic and research needs of its user community. With its rich history, diverse collections, and commitment to innovation and excellence, the library is an indispensable resource for students, faculty, and researchers across various disciplines. As the library continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its user community, it remains dedicated to its mission of providing access to knowledge, fostering intellectual curiosity, and promoting academic excellence.
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