30 Facts About University Of Michigan Library

History and Foundation

The University of Michigan Library has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. Here are some fascinating facts about its origins and development.

1. The library was established in 1837, the same year the University of Michigan was founded.
2. It started with a modest collection of 3,000 volumes, which were purchased in Europe.
3. The first librarian, Asa Gray, was also a renowned botanist.
4. The library's first permanent building, the General Library, was completed in 1883.
5. In 1920, the library moved to the Harlan Hatcher Graduate Library, which remains a central part of the campus.

Collections and Holdings

The University of Michigan Library is known for its extensive and diverse collections. Let's explore some of the unique aspects of its holdings.

6. The library boasts over 8 million volumes, making it one of the largest university libraries in the United States.
7. It houses more than 4.5 million microforms, including rare manuscripts and historical documents.
8. The Special Collections Research Center contains rare books, maps, and manuscripts dating back to the 15th century.
9. The library's digital collections include over 1.5 million items, accessible to researchers worldwide.
10. It holds the largest collection of papyri in North America, with over 18,000 pieces.

Services and Facilities

The University of Michigan Library offers a wide range of services and state-of-the-art facilities to support students, faculty, and researchers.

11. The library provides access to over 1,000 databases, covering various academic disciplines.
12. It offers interlibrary loan services, allowing users to borrow materials from other libraries worldwide.
13. The Shapiro Undergraduate Library is open 24/7 during the academic year, providing a convenient study space for students.
14. The library's Ask a Librarian service offers real-time assistance through chat, email, and phone.
15. The Duderstadt Center, part of the library system, features advanced technology labs and collaborative workspaces.

Research and Innovation

The University of Michigan Library is at the forefront of research and innovation, supporting groundbreaking projects and initiatives.

16. The library's Digital Scholarship Service helps researchers create and share digital projects.
17. It hosts the Michigan Publishing division, which publishes scholarly books and journals.
18. The library's Deep Blue repository provides open access to the university's research outputs.
19. The library collaborates with Google on the Google Books project, digitizing millions of volumes.
20. It supports data management and preservation through the Research Data Services team.

Community and Outreach

The University of Michigan Library is deeply committed to community engagement and outreach, fostering a culture of learning and collaboration.

21. The library hosts numerous events, workshops, and lectures throughout the year.
22. It offers public access to many of its resources, including digital collections and special exhibits.
23. The library partners with local schools and organizations to promote literacy and education.
24. It provides support for open access publishing, helping researchers make their work freely available.
25. The library's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiative aims to create a welcoming environment for all users.

Notable Achievements

The University of Michigan Library has received numerous accolades and recognition for its contributions to academia and society.

26. It was one of the first libraries to join the HathiTrust Digital Library, a partnership of major research institutions.
27. The library received the Association of College and Research Libraries' Excellence in Academic Libraries Award in 2012.
28. It has been recognized for its leadership in digital preservation and access.
29. The library's staff includes experts in various fields, contributing to its reputation as a center of excellence.
30. The University of Michigan Library continues to innovate and evolve, ensuring it remains a vital resource for future generations.

Final Thoughts on University of Michigan Library

The University of Michigan Library stands as a beacon of knowledge and innovation. With over 14 million volumes, it’s one of the largest research libraries in the United States. The Hatcher Graduate Library and Shapiro Undergraduate Library offer unique resources, from rare manuscripts to cutting-edge technology. The Digital Conversion Unit ensures historical documents are preserved for future generations. Students and researchers benefit from extensive collections, expert staff, and collaborative spaces. The library’s commitment to accessibility and sustainability reflects its forward-thinking approach. Whether you’re diving into historical archives or exploring modern databases, the University of Michigan Library provides invaluable support. It’s not just a place to study; it’s a hub for discovery and innovation. Next time you’re in Ann Arbor, make sure to visit and experience this incredible resource firsthand.