Firestone Library

The Firestone Library is the main library at Princeton University. It's known for its extensive collection of books and manuscripts, serving as a major research resource for students and scholars.

Firestone Library is the main library of Princeton University, located in Princeton, New Jersey. Established in 1948, it serves as the university's primary repository for books, manuscripts, and other scholarly materials. With over 4 million books, Firestone Library boasts one of the largest open-stack collections in the world, offering resources across a wide range of academic disciplines. The library's architecture, designed by architect William H. G. France, reflects the collegiate gothic style prevalent on the Princeton campus. Firestone Library is a hub of academic activity, providing spaces for research, study, and collaboration for students, faculty, and visiting scholars alike.

Collections and Resources: Firestone Library houses one of the largest open-stack collections in the world, with over 4 million volumes covering a wide range of subjects, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. The library's holdings include rare books, manuscripts, archival materials, maps, and special collections. Notable collections within Firestone Library include the Scheide Library, which features rare books and manuscripts dating back to the 15th century, and the Princeton University Archives, which document the history and development of the university.Facilities and Services: The library provides a variety of facilities and services to support research, learning, and scholarship. These include reading rooms, study spaces, computer labs, printing and scanning services, and access to digital resources and databases. Firestone Library also offers research assistance and instruction through its team of librarians and subject specialists.Cultural and Academic Hub: Firestone Library serves as a cultural and academic hub for the Princeton community and beyond. In addition to its role as a repository for scholarly materials, the library hosts exhibitions, lectures, and events that showcase its collections and promote intellectual engagement. It also collaborates with other libraries and institutions to facilitate access to resources and promote research and scholarship.Accessibility and Outreach: Firestone Library is committed to providing equitable access to its resources and services. It offers accommodations and support for users with disabilities, including assistive technology and accessible facilities. The library also engages in outreach efforts to connect with diverse communities and promote literacy, research skills, and information literacy.Future Developments: As technology and scholarship continue to evolve, Firestone Library remains dedicated to adapting and innovating to meet the needs of its users. The library is actively involved in digitization projects to enhance access to its collections and preserve cultural heritage for future generations. It also seeks to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and support emerging areas of research and inquiry.