18 Surprising Facts About Crerar Library

The Crerar Library houses over 1.5 million volumes.

With an extensive collection of books, journals, and research materials, the Crerar Library boasts an impressive collection of over 1.5 million volumes. From scientific literature to rare manuscripts, this library is a treasure trove for researchers and scholars.

The library is named after its benefactor, John Crerar.

John Crerar was a wealthy Chicago businessman and philanthropist who generously donated funds to establish the Crerar Library. His vision was to create a state-of-the-art research facility that would support scientific advancements and promote education.

Crerar Library is part of the University of Chicago.

Located on the university’s campus, the Crerar Library is an integral part of the University of Chicago’s academic community. It serves as a vital resource for students, faculty, and researchers across a wide range of disciplines.

The library’s architecture is inspired by Gothic Revival style.

The Crerar Library’s building is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and intricate stone carvings. The design creates a unique and inspiring atmosphere for visitors.

It features a state-of-the-art digital media lab.

Recognizing the importance of modern technology, the Crerar Library includes a cutting-edge digital media lab. With advanced equipment and software, students and researchers have access to tools for multimedia production and data visualization.

Crerar Library has specialized collections in the sciences.

As a research library focused on scientific disciplines, the Crerar Library boasts specialized collections in areas such as biology, chemistry, physics, geology, and computer science. These collections are a valuable resource for scholars in these fields.

The library offers a variety of study spaces.

Whether you prefer quiet study rooms, group collaboration areas, or comfortable reading nooks, Crerar Library has a range of study spaces to cater to different learning styles and preferences.

Crerar Library provides access to extensive electronic resources.

In addition to its vast physical collection, the library offers access to a wide range of electronic resources, including e-books, journals, databases, and research tools. This ensures that researchers have access to the latest information and publications.

The library regularly hosts exhibitions and events.

Crerar Library is not just a repository for books and research materials; it also serves as a cultural hub. It hosts exhibitions, lectures, and events that showcase the library’s collections and promote intellectual engagement.

The library offers research support services.

Crerar Library provides comprehensive research support services, including assistance with information literacy, literature searches, data management, and citation management. Librarians are available to help researchers navigate the complexities of the research process.

The library has a robust interlibrary loan program.

If a particular resource is not available within the Crerar Library’s collection, patrons can take advantage of the library’s interlibrary loan program. This allows them to request materials from other libraries, expanding the scope of their research.

Crerar Library has a designated space for studying maps and atlases.

For those interested in geography or cartography, Crerar Library has a dedicated area for studying maps and atlases. This specialized collection includes historical maps, topographic maps, and a wealth of geographical information.

The library offers workshops and training sessions.

To enhance students’ research skills, Crerar Library organizes workshops and training sessions on topics such as literature searching, data analysis, citation management, and academic writing. These sessions equip students with valuable skills for their academic journey.

It is home to a science-focused makerspace.

Crerar Library houses a makerspace, a collaborative workspace where students can engage in hands-on activities related to science and technology. The makerspace provides access to tools, equipment, and resources for experimentation and innovation.

The library has a collection of historical scientific instruments.

Alongside books and journals, Crerar Library houses a collection of historical scientific instruments. These artifacts offer a glimpse into the evolution of scientific tools and provide insights into the history of scientific discovery.

Crerar Library supports open access initiatives.

Recognizing the importance of open access to scholarly research, the library actively promotes and supports initiatives that make research outputs freely available to the public. This helps to foster a more inclusive and accessible academic community.

The library offers digitization services for rare and unique materials.

With a focus on preservation and accessibility, Crerar Library provides digitization services for rare and unique materials within its collection. This ensures that valuable resources can be accessed digitally by researchers around the world.

Crerar Library provides remote access to electronic resources.

Even when not physically present at the library, patrons can still access electronic resources remotely through the library’s online portal. This allows for seamless research and study, regardless of location.

With its rich collections, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to supporting research and education, Crerar Library is a beacon of knowledge and innovation within the University of Chicago community. Whether you are a student, a faculty member, or a curious visitor, this library offers an immersive and enriching experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Crerar Library is a hidden gem in the world of landmarks. With its rich history, unique architecture, and impressive collection, it offers so much more than meets the eye. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a bookworm, a visit to the Crerar Library is a must. Explore its stunning reading rooms, dive into its vast collection of scientific literature, and uncover the surprising facts behind this iconic landmark. The Crerar Library is not just a place for knowledge, but also a place of inspiration and wonder.

FAQs

1. How old is the Crerar Library?

The Crerar Library was established in 1894, making it over 125 years old.

2. What is the architectural style of the library?

The Crerar Library features a blend of Gothic and Renaissance Revival architectural styles, giving it a unique and captivating appearance.

3. How large is the library’s collection?

The library boasts an impressive collection of over 1.4 million volumes, including rare and valuable scientific literature.

4. Can anyone visit the Crerar Library?

Yes, the library is open to the public and welcomes visitors who are interested in exploring its fascinating collection and architecture.

5. Are there any notable features or exhibits in the library?

Absolutely! Some notable features include the stunning stained glass windows, the historic Steinway piano, and the fascinating exhibits on scientific discoveries.

6. Can I borrow books from the Crerar Library?

The Crerar Library primarily serves the University of Chicago community, but it does offer limited borrowing privileges to certain borrowers, such as faculty, staff, and alumni.

7. Is there a café or dining options within the library?

Yes, there is a café located within the library where visitors can enjoy a coffee or a light snack while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

8. Does the library offer any guided tours?

Yes, the Crerar Library offers guided tours for groups, providing a deeper insight into the library’s history, architecture, and collections. It is recommended to book in advance.