Libraries
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To a large extent, the history of Yale is the history of a library. Books were the University's first endowment and the growth of its libraries has faithfully reflected that of the University itself. Today, Yale's libraries collectively contains over 11 million volumes. Sterling Memorial Library, its majestic Gothic tower rising high above the central campus, is the largest of Yale's libraries and contains the humanities and general collections as well as materials supporting area studies around the world. A tunnel connects Sterling to the Cross Campus Library, a modern underground building containing the books most frequently used in support of Yale College courses. Both Sterling and Cross Campus libraries offer a wide variety of comfortable and attractive spaces for students. The magnificent new Irving S. Gilmore Music Library, built within Sterling, includes books, scores, manuscripts, seminar rooms, and listening facilities for students. The Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, an architectural marvel constructed from translucent white marble, welcomes everyone from undergraduates to international researchers. The Beinecke is one of the country's most important centers for research in the humanities. The Seeley G. Mudd Library houses Yale's extensive collection of government documents. The Kline Science Library maintains libraries that serve the disciplines of chemistry, biology, physics, engineering and applied science, forestry and environmental studies, geology, and mathematics. Other libraries most frequently used by undergraduates are the Arts Library and the Social Science Library. In addition, departmental and professional school libraries exist for astronomy, classics, comparative literature, divinity, drama, epidemiology and public health, law, linguistics, medicine, ornithology, and statistics. Residential colleges maintain libraries as well. Click here for information on library workshops and tutorials, including training specifically geared to freshment. |
Additional Resources |
Yale's online catalogue, ORBIS, contains 3.9 million records identifying books, journals, and other library materials and is growing rapidly as paper records are converted to computerized form. ORBIS and many other bibliographic databases, as well as online journals and full-text resources, are available in all Yale libraries and through the campus network. A wealth of online information and research guides may be found at the library's Web site. The vast library system may initially seem overwhelming, so students should remember to ask for help in making the best use of its many resources and treasures.
