The Queen Elizabeth II Library, located on the campus of Memorial University of Newfoundland in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is a state-of-the-art research library that serves as the main library of the university. The library is named after Queen Elizabeth II and was officially opened in 1982. With a collection of over 1.4 million volumes, the Queen Elizabeth II Library is one of the largest research libraries in Atlantic Canada.
History and Development
The Queen Elizabeth II Library has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The library’s roots can be traced back to the establishment of Memorial University College in 1925, which later became Memorial University of Newfoundland in 1949. Over the years, the library has undergone several transformations, including the construction of a new building in 1982, which was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II herself. The library has since become a hub of academic activity, providing access to a vast array of resources, including books, journals, databases, and digital collections.
Collection and Resources
The Queen Elizabeth II Library boasts an impressive collection of over 1.4 million volumes, including books, journals, and other materials. The library’s collection is diverse and comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects, including the humanities, social sciences, sciences, and engineering. The library also provides access to over 100,000 electronic journals and over 500 databases, making it an invaluable resource for researchers and students. In addition to its physical collection, the library also offers a range of digital collections, including e-books, digital archives, and online resources.
| Collection Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | 1,200,000 |
| Journals | 100,000 |
| Databases | 500 |
| E-books | 50,000 |
Services and Facilities
The Queen Elizabeth II Library offers a range of services and facilities to support the academic and research needs of its users. The library provides access to study spaces, including individual and group study rooms, as well as quiet and silent study areas. The library also offers a range of technology services, including computers, printers, and scanners, as well as assistance with research and citation management. Additionally, the library provides support for students with disabilities, including accessible study spaces and adaptive technology.
Special Collections and Archives
The Queen Elizabeth II Library is home to several special collections and archives, including the Centre for Newfoundland Studies, the Archives and Special Collections, and the Folklore and Language Archive. These collections provide a unique window into the history and culture of Newfoundland and Labrador, and are an invaluable resource for researchers and students. The library also offers a range of digital collections, including the Memorial University Digital Archives, which provides access to a wide range of historical documents and materials.
The library's special collections and archives include a wide range of materials, such as manuscripts, photographs, and audio recordings. These materials are carefully preserved and made available to researchers and students, providing a unique opportunity to explore the history and culture of Newfoundland and Labrador.
What are the library's hours of operation?
+The Queen Elizabeth II Library is open Monday to Thursday from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm. However, hours may vary during holidays and exam periods.
How can I access the library's digital collections?
+The library's digital collections can be accessed through the library's website, using a valid Memorial University username and password. The library also provides guest access to its digital collections for visitors and researchers.
Future Developments and Initiatives
The Queen Elizabeth II Library is committed to providing innovative and inclusive services to its users. The library is currently undergoing a range of initiatives, including the development of new study spaces and the implementation of new technologies to support research and learning. The library is also exploring new ways to engage with its users, including social media and online communities. As the library continues to evolve and grow, it remains committed to its mission of providing high-quality research resources and services to the academic community.
The library's future developments and initiatives include the creation of a makerspace, which will provide students and researchers with access to cutting-edge technologies, such as 3D printing and virtual reality. The library is also planning to launch a range of new services, including research data management and scholarly communication support.
