Using the Library

Everyone is welcome to research and explore our collections. We are located on the A level of the Charles E. Young Research Library (YRL), one level down from the YRL lobby. The closest parking lots are Structures 3 and 5. Visit UCLA Transportation for more information about parking and directions.

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About Us

Mission

UCLA Library Special Collections inspires discovery, cultivates knowledge, advances research and preserves cultural heritage to create a distinctive learning environment for the UCLA community and society at large. We welcome researchers to explore our collections of rare books, archives, manuscripts, oral histories and other materials and to utilize our services.

Principles

The following principles demonstrate our commitment to excellence and set the foundation for our culture and actions:

  • Open Access: Support the free exchange of information and ensure all of our holdings can be discovered and used, and reach as wide an audience as possible.
  • Service: Provide expert staff to meet the needs of our users as quickly, effectively and efficiently as possible and to anticipate and address evolving research needs.
  • Collaboration: Partner with colleagues in the UCLA Library, on campus, in our surrounding communities, and in the library and archives profession to build capacity and achieve common goals.
  • Education: Teach others the significance of our cultural heritage and the importance of primary research skills and ensure our holdings are incorporated into all levels of the UCLA curriculum.
  • Innovation: Develop creative, practical and flexible strategies to meet the challenges of the future by harnessing the best new methods and technologies.
  • Leadership: Demonstrate Library Special Collections’ role as fundamental to the mission of the UCLA Library and the university by enacting and broadly promoting our mission and principles.