The Libraries
In addition to the various degree programs offered at St. John’s University, there are many other academic resources available for our students. The University Libraries provides books and other research materials, as well as the expertise of a team of librarians ready to assist students and faculty in their research needs. Beginning with a small library of a few hundred books in the 1870s, to the eBooks and online databases of today, the libraries have continuously evolved to meet the needs of our students over time.
Today, the University Library and the Rittenberg Law Library at the Queens campus, the Loretto Memorial Library at the Staten Island campus, and the Davis Library at the Manhattan campus, are wonderful resources for all St. John’s students, faculty, and staff.
The University Archives & Special Collections
When St. Augustine Hall opened in the 1960s, a Rare Book Room housed the most valuable and unique books in the library. When the Office of Historical Collections formed in 1969, it became home to many new primary source documents for students and faculty to use for their research. The University Archives was founded in 1971 to document and preserve the history of St. John’s University, as well as house the items from the former Office of Historical Collections.
Today, the University Archives & Special Collections acquires, preserves, and provides access to historical materials about St. John’s University, as well as unique materials such as rare books, bibles, art catalogs, and manuscripts. We offer remote research assistance and virtual class sessions to all St. John’s students and faculty.
