UO Libraries: the Heart of Campus

More than books. More than study spaces. The University of Oregon Libraries form the intellectual heart of campus.

While UO libraries contain the largest research resources in the state, their vitality comes from the faculty, librarians, community members and students who use those resources every day and the donors who make it all possible.

Take English and Film Assistant Professor Michael Aronson. His innovative classes have utilized the library's Special Collections and given his students first-hand experience working with the personal papers of filmmaker James Ivory. Assistant Professor Aronson is an ardent proponent of this kind of research because it not only gives students preparation for careers and graduate school, it empowers them to become part of history. By working with archival materials, students "aren't just learning history, they are becoming historians." Professor Aronson's energy is palpable too in the glowing reports students give about classes which utilize the library. "The use of the Knight Library Special Collections was great - it seemed daunting initially, but the simple fact is that it is an amazing resource..."one undergraduate reported.

Professors aren't the only ones using the libraries to make a difference in the lives of students. UO librarians care deeply about the student and faculty researchers they support. As Assistant Professor Aronson puts it, "they are incredibly attentive and passionate about helping you in your research and having that kind of enthusiasm for your work is a special thing." They serve thousands of undergraduates, graduates, and faculty - nurturing ideas and supporting the development of the kind of research that changes the world.

But none of this exploration would be possible without the generosity of annual donors whose support provides:

• Books and reference materials
• Journal subscriptions
• Media and computing resources
• Scholars' Bank
• Faculty research and technology support
• And much, much more

Each day, 7,800 students, faculty and community members walk through the doors of UO's seven libraries. And each year, roughly 2,000 alumni and friends support these facilities so they continue to be places where teaching and research thrive, and most importantly, students realize their scholarly potential.

Each year over 1,700 parents and grandparents make generous gifts!

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 Thank you for supporting your child's UO education!