Student Guide
We’re Here to Help
UW Libraries is a network of 15 different libraries across UW campuses offering a world of resources, services and support. Whether you’re looking for a place to study, need help finding resources, or want to create a digital project, UW Libraries can help! To stay informed about all Library events and updates, be sure to follow us on socials!
Ask Us!
Get help from librarians by email, phone, 24/7 chat, or make an appointment with a subject expert
Hours and Access
- Students are welcome in all UW Libraries locations. Explore!
- Hours may fluctuate throughout the year, always check hours online first before you go!
- A current, valid Husky Card is required for entry to Odegaard Undergraduate Library and the Health Sciences Library.
- Connect to library resources from off campus: You can access library resources from anywhere, any time using your UW NetID. Off-campus access FAQ
Library Spaces
From a silent study nook, to collaboration spaces, zoom pods, a sound studio and more, find a space that meets your specific needs.
- Collabs: The Open Scholarship Commons, Research Commons, Li Lu Library are great, tech-enabled spaces for group work, hybrid meetings and presentations.
- Reservations: Individual and group study spaces are available by reservation in all libraries. See spaces.
New Students
- Before the quarter, make sure you know how to access library resources by reviewing the Off-campus access FAQ
- Early Online Access: New students can access online resources approximately 1-2 weeks prior to the start of the quarter!
- Take a virtual tour through the UW Libraries!
- Top 10 Things I Wish I Knew My First Year
UW Libraries Special Collections
Special Collections is a “must see” treasure at UW! Come to Allen Library South to see the Libraries’ most rare and unique collections including the UW Archives. You can view many items online in our digital collections , or view in person (by appointment). Special Collections also hosts amazing exhibits and fun events throughout the year where you can learn about and view materials up close.
Start Here
Ask Us!
It’s okay to ask for help! It’s our job to help you– whether that means searching online, deciding on a research topic, or getting access to online tools, just ASK US!
Research Guides
Research Guides are a great place to start your research. Librarians curate these comprehensive lists of the top resources for a particular subject, and provide instructions on how best to find materials. Learn more.
Top Links and FAQs
It’s never too early (or too late) to get familiar with these tips and tools on how to search and access resources.
Resources and Services
Borrow Textbooks/Course Materials
Online and physical course materials (textbooks and media) are available through the Libraries. Many physical textbooks (course reserves) are housed in Odegaard Undergraduate Library, available for short-term loans (typically 2-4 hours).
Odegaard Writing and Research Center (OWRC)
At the Odegaard Writing and Research Center, librarians and peer consultants provide guidance with all stages of the research process, including defining a research question, exploring background information, and finding sources. Writing tutors can help you with writing assignments at any phase of your process.
Computers, Printing & Accessibility
- Odegaard has the largest computer lab on campus.
- Print using your Husky Card with Dawg Prints
- Wi-Fi: use the Eduroam network (on campus, secure, encrypted)
- Off-campus access FAQ
- IT at the UW Student Quick-Start Guide
- UW Libraries accessibility
Level Up: Tools and Services to Create and Publish
We offer many free skill-building workshops and help desk hours each month. View the Calendar.
The Open Scholarship Commons is a hub of resources that can help you to:
- Integrate audio/video into your research (i.e. podcasts)
- Create online projects, interactive maps, charts
- Use and manage data
- Publish a digital book or journal
- Learn about copyright rules
Community Connections
From author talks to historical exhibits, book clubs and cultural events, there is always something happening at the Libraries!
- View the Calendar
- Special Collections Book Club Events
- REALit– based out of UW Tacoma, open to all
- Good Reads Online Resources
- Odegaard Library’s Good Reads Collection
- International Good Reads
Explore Our Collections
- You have access to a world of resources including:
- E-books, streaming media/movies,music, and images
- Popular news (New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Atlantic, international news)
- Databases and articles
- Government documents, maps, out-of-print publications
- Rare books, photographs and more!
- Explore more
Join Our Student Employee Team!
Our student team represents a diverse student body across all UW campuses. The Libraries offer flexible work schedules for both the academic year and summer quarter, with positions centrally located on campus. BONUS: Student employees at the UW Libraries may apply for Libraries Student Employee Scholarships of $1,000 each!!
Win Prizes For Your Work
Learn about annual student contests and opportunities to earn cash rewards for your research projects and creativity!
Stay in Touch
