Know Your Library

Express Checkout

Avoid waiting in lines to check out books! The Express Checkout machines at the front and back entrance are easy and fast to use.

Need Help With Research?

Librarians are here to help you! Stop by the Reference/Information Desk or try our chat reference service.

Need Some Peace and Quiet?

There are designated quiet study spaces throughout the library.  Floors 5-8 are designated as quiet study floors.

Working With a Group?

There is a place just for you!  Our group areas and small study rooms are equipped with white boards and comfy seating.

What’s a Call Number?

Call numbers will guide you to an item’s location on the shelf.  Use the library catalog to find call numbers and library locations.

Library Subject Guides

Not sure where to start with your research?  Check out our subject guides to find the right sources.

Off-Campus Library Access

Use the proxy server or the VPN to access the library’s electronic resources from off campus any time day or night.

Learn to Use the Library

Our INT 1 course is designed to help you with library research.  Earn 1 credit and amaze your friends with your research awesomeness!

Library Hours

Library hours vary during the quarter.  Check our webpage to find out when different service areas of the library are open.

Looking for a Book?

Use the UCSB Library Catalog to find books and other items.  Use Next-Gen Melvyl Catalog to find items in other UC Libraries.

 

Scanners

We have flatbed scanners and special scanners for microfilm and microfiche available in the library.

Need a Computer?

We have over 200 public computers in the library available for use.  Current faculty, staff, and students can borrow library laptops.

Course Reserves for Instructors

Give your students access to textbooks and readings through the library’s Course Reserves.  We are happy to help you!

Course Reserves for Students

Looking for something your instructor put on Reserves?  The Course Reserves page will help you find it.

Interlibrary Loan

Do you need a book or article that we don’t have? We can get it for you from another library through Interlibrary Loan (ILL).

Looking for Articles?

Use an article database to find articles on your topic.  Academic Search Complete is a good one to start with.

Lactation Room

There is a lactation room in the Arts Library (room 2107B), which offers comfortable seating, magazines, television, and DVDs. Learn more about this program.

Massages at the Library

The UCSB Library and the Wellness Center are again offering free chair massages for students every Tuesday from noon to 2pm. Find us in the new books area on the 1st floor of Davidson Library.

Oldest Item in the Library

The library's oldest item is a Sumerian tablet, circa 2046-2037 BCE. Written in cuneiform script pressed into clay, this "messenger text" lists goods that might have been included in an ancient shipment, such as beer, bread, oil, spices, and onions.

Library Addition and Renovation

A new addition and renovation of the 2-story section of the UCSB Library will allow us to upgrade and expand study spaces and services. For more information please visit our project website.

Overnight Study

Late Night Study is available on the 1st and 2nd floors of Davidson Library, and begins after regular building hours. Late Night Study is restricted to UCSB students, faculty, and staff. You will need to swipe your campus ID at the main west entrance to gain access during overnight hours.