While libraries are generally associated with books, and many of the library's resources may be available electronically, libraries are also places for student support services and other facilities that are designed to help you succeed in college. In a library at a university or college you may find:

• Open, collaborative study spaces
• Quiet study spaces and study rooms
• Circulation desk where you can pick up books from your library, other libraries, or short-term loans for textbooks for your classes
• Focus on affordable course materials, textbooks, etc.
• Leisure reading books and films, streamed media
• A place to get food or coffee
• Tutoring, writing assistance, and guides on tests and careers
• Media studios with equipment to record yourself for presentation practice or for media projects
• Lots of books arranged by either the Dewey or Library of Congress classification system
• Classrooms, large or small
• AND, there are librarians!

Northwestern University Libraries has over 40 subject librarians who work with departments and programs throughout the university, and we specialize in helping students and faculty find the sources they need to do their research. No matter where you attend college, there should be librarians there to help!

Subject Librarians at NUL

Research Guides by Subject

NUsearch is the University's online catalog. Here you can search for books, journals, videos, and more, in both print and electronic formats.