A student reading a book in the library

Yale University Library

The Heart of Yale

Above the entrance to Sterling Memorial Library is an inscription: “The library is the heart of the university.” It’s true. Yale’s library system serves every student, faculty member, and researcher at the university, as well as members of the public. Gifts to the library help connect our academic community with a wealth of knowledge, resources, and materials—whether they’re browsing in the stacks or accessing e-resources from across the globe.

A World of Knowledge

Yale’s library system contains fifteen million print and electronic volumes in more than a dozen libraries and locations. In addition to digital materials, our resources for teaching and research include ancient papyri, early printed books, maps, rare film and music recordings, and photographs. Many of the materials are in circulation. Some may be accessed in reading rooms or displayed in public exhibitions. And some are made part of the student learning experience in object study classrooms. By making its holdings widely available, Yale’s library fulfills its commitment to preserve and disseminate human knowledge.

Key Contacts

Lillian Goldman Law Library

December 5, 2022

Preserving Access to the World’s Digital Memory

With support from the Alfred P. Sloan and Mellon Foundations, Yale University Library’s EaaSI program is conquering digital obsolescence for future generations of researchers.
Testimony taping of concentration camp survivor Pierre T. in 1987

July 7, 2022

A Tribute to Holocaust Survivors

A bequest from Helene Fortunoff supports the Fortunoff Video Archive for Holocaust Testimonies.
The historic Linonia and Brothers Room in Sterling Memorial Library

November 8, 2021

Sterling Memorial Library’s Iconic L&B Room to Be Restored

The Linonia and Brothers Room in Sterling Memorial Library will be renovated, thanks to generous support from alumni. This cherished space will be updated with modern heating, cooling, and lighting technology, while its finishes and furniture will be restored and maintained.
For Humanity

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