The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Library is a premier research library that serves the students, faculty, and staff of UCSD, as well as the broader San Diego community. With a collection of over 7 million items, including books, journals, databases, and digital resources, the library provides access to a vast array of information and knowledge.
History and Mission
The UCSD Library was established in 1960, shortly after the founding of the university. The library’s mission is to provide access to information and knowledge, support the academic and research endeavors of the university community, and promote intellectual discovery and innovation. The library is committed to fostering a culture of inclusion, diversity, and sustainability, and to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all users.
Collections and Resources
The UCSD Library’s collections include a wide range of materials, including books, journals, databases, manuscripts, and digital resources. The library is particularly strong in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as in the humanities and social sciences. The library also has a number of special collections, including the Mandeville Special Collections Library, the Archive for New Poetry, and the UCSD Pascal Collection.
| Collection | Description |
|---|---|
| Books | Over 2 million print and e-books |
| Journals | Over 50,000 print and electronic journals |
| Databases | Over 500 databases, including JSTOR, ScienceDirect, and IEEE Xplore |
| Digital Resources | Over 1 million digital images, videos, and other media |
Services and Programs
The UCSD Library offers a range of services and programs to support the academic and research endeavors of the university community. These include research assistance, instruction and workshops, study spaces and collaboration rooms, and technology lending and support. The library also offers a number of programs and events, including author talks, exhibitions, and cultural events.
Research Assistance
The UCSD Library provides research assistance to students, faculty, and staff, including personalized research consultations, workshops and instruction, and online research guides. The library’s subject specialists are experts in their fields and can provide guidance on finding and using relevant resources, as well as on developing research strategies and techniques.
- Personalized research consultations
- Workshops and instruction
- Online research guides
Facilities and Technology
The UCSD Library has a number of facilities and technologies to support the academic and research endeavors of the university community. These include study spaces and collaboration rooms, technology lending and support, and digital media and production studios. The library is also committed to providing accessible and inclusive facilities, including wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms, and adaptive technology and software.
Sustainability Initiatives
The UCSD Library is committed to sustainability and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. These include energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, recycling and composting programs, and sustainable purchasing and procurement practices. The library is also exploring new technologies and innovations to support sustainability, including green roofs and solar panels.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The library’s hours of operation vary depending on the time of year and other factors. Please check the library’s website for the most up-to-date information.
How do I access the library’s digital resources?
+The library’s digital resources can be accessed through the library’s website, using your UCSD login credentials. Please note that some resources may be restricted to UCSD students, faculty, and staff.
Can I borrow materials from other libraries?
+Yes, the UCSD Library participates in a number of interlibrary loan programs, including the UC Libraries and the San Diego Circuit. Please check the library’s website for more information.
