How many libraries are at UC Berkeley and are they easy to use?
I'm researching UC Berkeley as one of my top choices, and I keep hearing about how big the campus and its library system are. But I'm a little confused about how many libraries there actually are. Some places say it's just a few main ones, while others talk about a ton of smaller branch libraries in the different departments.
I'd love to hear from current or past students about how many libraries are really on campus, and whether they're easy to get access to. Do you need special permission to go into certain libraries or is it pretty straightforward? I love studying in different environments, so this is kind of important to me. Any tips about which libraries are best for undergrads would also be appreciated!
I'd love to hear from current or past students about how many libraries are really on campus, and whether they're easy to get access to. Do you need special permission to go into certain libraries or is it pretty straightforward? I love studying in different environments, so this is kind of important to me. Any tips about which libraries are best for undergrads would also be appreciated!
6 months ago
•
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Kathy Jayanth
• 6 months ago
Advisor
UC Berkeley’s library system is one of the largest in the country, both in terms of the number of libraries and the collections they house. As of 2024, UC Berkeley has more than 20 libraries spread across campus. This includes well-known main libraries like Doe Library and Moffitt Library, as well as various subject-specific libraries such as the East Asian Library, the Bioscience & Natural Resources Library, and the Environmental Design Library. Many departments (like Mathematics and Anthropology) even have their own specialized branch libraries tailored to their disciplines.
Accessing these libraries as an undergraduate is generally straightforward. Your Cal 1 Card serves as your key, giving you entry to all the campus libraries. Only a handful of spaces, like some rare book rooms or archives, require special permission or appointments, but the vast majority of libraries are open to all Berkeley students during their regular hours. During finals, some spots like Moffitt may have extended hours or be more crowded, but they also add study spaces and events to help students focus.
If you’re looking for great study environments, Moffitt Library is especially popular among undergrads because it was recently renovated with modern study spaces, group rooms, and even a "makerspace." Doe Library is a classic, with impressive architecture and a quiet, studious vibe. If you prefer smaller, cozier spots, checking out the subject libraries is a great tactic—they tend to be quieter and less crowded, especially during peak times. For example, the Art History/Classics Library is tucked away and perfect for quiet reading, while the Mathematics Statistics Library is a hidden gem for those who want an out-of-the-way place to focus.
Everyone has their favorites, and one tip is to explore during the first few weeks of classes to find what feels best for you. The library website has a useful directory and maps, so you can plan your study adventures ahead of time. All in all, UC Berkeley's libraries are set up to be student-friendly and easy to use, with resources to help you no matter what or where you like to study.
Accessing these libraries as an undergraduate is generally straightforward. Your Cal 1 Card serves as your key, giving you entry to all the campus libraries. Only a handful of spaces, like some rare book rooms or archives, require special permission or appointments, but the vast majority of libraries are open to all Berkeley students during their regular hours. During finals, some spots like Moffitt may have extended hours or be more crowded, but they also add study spaces and events to help students focus.
If you’re looking for great study environments, Moffitt Library is especially popular among undergrads because it was recently renovated with modern study spaces, group rooms, and even a "makerspace." Doe Library is a classic, with impressive architecture and a quiet, studious vibe. If you prefer smaller, cozier spots, checking out the subject libraries is a great tactic—they tend to be quieter and less crowded, especially during peak times. For example, the Art History/Classics Library is tucked away and perfect for quiet reading, while the Mathematics Statistics Library is a hidden gem for those who want an out-of-the-way place to focus.
Everyone has their favorites, and one tip is to explore during the first few weeks of classes to find what feels best for you. The library website has a useful directory and maps, so you can plan your study adventures ahead of time. All in all, UC Berkeley's libraries are set up to be student-friendly and easy to use, with resources to help you no matter what or where you like to study.
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Kathy Jayanth
Berkeley, CA
UC Berkeley | Economics & Slavic Studies
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5 years
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