Washington University Libraries

The Washington University Libraries are a powerful network of academic resources featuring [9 University Libraries](https://library.wustl.edu/locations/) (7 locations on the Danforth Campus, one on West Campus, and one at the Medical School); vast print and electronic collections; and expert librarians whose priority is helping students and faculty find the information they need. The center of this rich network is [John M. Olin Library](https://library.wustl.edu/locations/olinlibrary/), a 197,000-square-foot research library housing humanities, social sciences, engineering, and special collections; an extended-hours study space; reading rooms; lounges; and small-group studies. The other libraries house collections serving specific departments or schools. Mission The Washington University Libraries facilitate the discovery, creation, utilization, preservation, and dissemination of ideas. We are an interactive hub of information resources, expertise, services, and relationships advancing research and learning outcomes for an evolving and diverse university community. Organizational Principles Open We are a welcoming hub that inspires discovery and collaboration to foster creative success and intellectual freedom. We emphasize inclusiveness and accessibility in all our programs, services, and initiatives. Engaged We serve as a trusted partner, providing specialized expertise throughout the scholar’s journey. We maintain critical relationships with our stakeholders to develop competencies and services in the University Libraries in anticipation of changing and evolving needs. Transformative We strive to innovate and adapt to facilitate creative approaches to produce successful academic outcomes. We remove barriers to resources essential to scholarly pursuits. History Ridgley Hall was named the University’s first library in May 1907. By 1946, the University Library owned 46,000 volumes and included 14 school and departmental libraries in addition to Ridgley. The larger and modern Olin Library opened in 1962 and was renovated in 2004. In the spring of 2018, the Olin Library Transformation project created new spaces and resources for learning, research, and teaching.