Bowling Green State University (BGSU) Library is a comprehensive academic library that serves the students, faculty, and staff of Bowling Green State University. Located in Bowling Green, Ohio, the library is a vital part of the university's mission to provide high-quality education and research opportunities. The library's collections, services, and facilities are designed to support the academic and research needs of the university community.
History of the Library
The BGSU Library was established in 1914, when the university was founded as the Bowling Green State Normal School. The library’s first home was in a small room in the university’s administration building, with a collection of just over 1,000 volumes. Over the years, the library has grown and evolved to meet the changing needs of the university, with new facilities and technologies being added to support the academic and research goals of the community.
Library Facilities
The BGSU Library is housed in the William T. Jerome Library building, which was opened in 1965 and renovated in 2007. The building features a range of study spaces, including individual and group study areas, quiet zones, and collaborative workspaces. The library also offers a variety of amenities, including wireless internet access, printing and scanning services, and a café. The library’s facilities are designed to be flexible and adaptable, with moveable furniture and technology that can be easily rearranged to support different learning styles and activities.
| Library Collection | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | over 1.2 million |
| E-journals | over 100,000 |
| Databases | over 300 |
| Special Collections | over 10,000 items |
Library Services
The BGSU Library offers a range of services to support the academic and research needs of the university community. These services include research assistance, instruction and outreach, and access to digital resources and tools. The library’s research assistance services include one-on-one consultations, group instruction sessions, and online research guides and tutorials. The library also offers a range of digital resources and tools, including online databases, e-journals, and e-books, as well as digital media and software.
Special Collections and Archives
The BGSU Library’s Special Collections and Archives department is home to a unique and diverse range of materials, including rare books, manuscripts, photographs, and other historical items. The department’s collections focus on the history of northwest Ohio, as well as the university’s own history and development. The Special Collections and Archives department also offers a range of services, including research assistance, instruction, and exhibitions and events.
The BGSU Library is committed to providing accessible and inclusive services to all members of the university community. The library offers a range of accommodations and services to support students with disabilities, including assistive technology, Braille and large print materials, and adaptive equipment. The library also offers services and resources to support diversity and inclusion, including cultural and linguistic diversity, and LGBTQ+ resources and services.
Future Developments
The BGSU Library is continually evolving to meet the changing needs of the university community. The library is currently exploring new technologies and innovations, such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality, to enhance the research and learning experience. The library is also committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, with initiatives such as energy-efficient lighting and recycling programs.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The library’s hours of operation vary depending on the time of year and semester. Please check the library’s website for the most up-to-date information on hours and closures.
How do I access the library’s online resources from off campus?
+To access the library’s online resources from off campus, you will need to log in with your BGSU username and password. You can do this by clicking on the “Off-Campus Access” link on the library’s website and following the prompts to authenticate.
Can I request materials from other libraries through the BGSU Library?
+Yes, the BGSU Library is a member of the OhioLINK consortium, which allows you to request materials from other libraries and have them delivered to the BGSU Library. You can search the OhioLINK catalog and request materials through the library’s website.
