For an incoming student, life can be a whirlwind — a flurry of new people, new classes, and new ideas.
But through it all, the UC Berkeley Library is here for you.
To help support your experience as a new student, we’ve gathered answers to some of the questions you might have, all in one place.
How many libraries does UC Berkeley have?
The UC Berkeley Library is actually made up of more than 20 libraries — and you are welcome at all of them.
Doe Library, located in the heart of campus, is home to several specialty libraries and is connected to the vast underground Main (Gardner) Stacks. Morrison Library, known as “the university’s living room,” is a frozen-in-time space within Doe where you can cozy up with a book or magazine or browse a selection of new releases. Moffitt Library is a hub for undergraduates, with spaces to study (solo or together) and even nap. The Bancroft Library, Berkeley’s main special collections library, holds many rare and one-of-a-kind treasures, including letters, diaries, photographs, and maps that shine light on the West.
Some of Berkeley’s libraries collect materials devoted to specific fields, including art history, music, and chemistry. Others, such as the C. V. Starr East Asian Library, collect materials in languages from around the world. Any student, with any major, is invited to explore each of these beloved destinations.
View a map of the campus’s libraries.
When are the libraries open, and where can I study?
See the libraries’ hours, and find a place to study.
How do I check out materials?
Your Cal 1 Card is your library card and lets you borrow library materials.
UC Library Search is your gateway to collections at Berkeley — and beyond. Use UC Library Search to find and request books, articles, and more. (Need help? Check out this handy guide.) Undergraduate students can have 100 items checked out at a time, and grad students and postdocs can check out 200 items.
How can I get help with research?
The Library makes it easy for you to get help with your research, no matter the topic. Use our 24/7 chat service, reach out via email, or make a 30-minute in-person or virtual appointment with a librarian. You can also schedule a consultation with a subject librarian (see a list here) by email or through the “Book appointment” button.
Packed with valuable information, our Library Guides include primers on writing and researching; resources on a range of academic subjects; and how-to’s on using Wi-Fi in the libraries and printing from your laptop or mobile device.
Does the Library have jobs for students?
Yes. The Library has a variety of employment opportunities for students. Work hours and locations vary. Browse student jobs here.
What other services and perks does the Library offer?
There are too many to list here, but the offerings that are available to you for free include:
- Streaming video: The Library offers streaming access to tens of thousands of movies and documentaries.
- E-books and audiobooks: Read and listen to bestselling works on your computer or device through OverDrive.
- Art for your apartment or dorm: Through the Graphic Arts Loan Collection, or GALC, Berkeley students, faculty, and staff can borrow stunning framed artworks, including original lithographs, etchings, and woodblock prints. You can reserve artworks through the GALC website. Questions? Email graphicarts-library@berkeley.edu.
- Borrow laptops and more: Is your MacBook out of commission? Need to get your hands on a charger, tripod, or calculator? The Library’s equipment-lending program has all of these and more (including flying discs for those idyllic days on Memorial Glade).
Keep up with the Library on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Tag and mention us in your social media posts, and reach out if you have any questions — or just to say hello.
Happy learning, and Fiat Lux!