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Libraries

Beyond helping scholars learn, research, and pursue truth, our libraries are dedicated to expanding knowledge and intellectual exploration for everyone.

Explore Harvard's libraries

Check out our books

Established in 1638, Harvard Library is the oldest library system in the United States.

  • 28

    libraries

  • 700

    expert staff

  • 6 million

    digitized and publicly available items

  • 20 million

    books

  • 1 million

    maps and spatial data sets

  • 400 million

    rare items including letters, photographs, and manuscripts

It is crucial that all members of the Harvard community and our visitors feel our spaces are for them and reflect who they are.”

Martha Whitehead

University Librarian and Vice President for Harvard Library

Learn more about inclusive library spaces
Smiling woman standing in front of ivy covered walls.

Libraries at Harvard

Find the hours and locations for our libraries.

Visit the libraries

Library Exhibits

Experience exhibits that tell the unique stories of our world-class collections.

See the exhibits

Library Collections

Explore Harvard Library’s physical and digital collections.

See the collections

Events, tours, and more

There are many opportunities for visitors to experience the collections at Harvard’s libraries.

Learn more about access to the public

Inside Harvard Library

Our expert librarians and archivists support students, faculty, staff, and the public through vast archives and cutting-edge technologies.