Libraries 101: A brief introduction to the Libraries

aerial photograph of Binghamton University main campus

The Libraries are full of friendly people with useful materials in spaces where everyone is welcome to do classwork, research or just to hang out with friends! In the Libraries, you’ll find books, digital content like eBooks and articles, printers and technology, check out and research help desks, subject guides and study rooms. The Libraries staff is happy to answer your questions and assist you with finding and using our resources.

To get you started with the basics of Binghamton Libraries, here is some information that can help you have a great start to the new semester!


Locations and Hours

The Libraries include three locations on Binghamton’s main campus and downtown. Each location has a different feel, so visit each one to find out which library is best for you.

a wide-shot photo of the Bartle Library lobby with students walking down the staircase

Glenn G. Bartle Library
The Glenn G. Bartle Library, named after the University’s first president, holds many collections in a wide variety of subjects as well as Special Collections and University Archives. Bartle Library has collaborative and quiet study spaces, including several reading rooms, the Graduate Student Commons and a recording studio

exterior photograph of the Science Library in front of a sunset

Science Library
The Science Library houses more of our physical collections including an extensive map collection and is home to the Sustainability Hub and Digital Scholarship Center. There are also a variety of study areas including group study rooms located on the ground floor.

exterior photo of the Binghamton University Downtown Center amongst trees

University Downtown Center (UDC) Library
The University Downtown Center (UDC) Library primarily supports the College of Community and Public Affairs and is open to any Binghamton student. The UDC Library collection contains reference materials and regional government documents in the areas of community research, public administration, human development, social work, education and student affairs. UDC also supports several group and individual study spaces.

Our location hours vary based on location and the academic calendar, so make sure to double check when each location is open by visiting our website or social media channels before visiting.


a group of students sit in a circle in the Science library and talk

Reserve a Study Room

Individual and group study rooms are available in all of our locations. We recommend reserving a space when you can! Many additional spaces with flexible furniture and varying noise levels are available in the Libraries.

binghamton.edu/libraries/services/reservations


Course Reserves

Save some money with the Libraries’ help! Some textbooks are available for checkout at the front desk or online through the Course Reserves Tool. Log in to Course Reserves to check the materials available for your classes this term.

binghamton.edu/libraries/services/reader-services/reserves


Subject Guides

A great place to start your research and find how-to guides. Every class and area of interest has a custom guide to point you in the right direction. Librarians create these tools to help you locate books, articles and other resources on your topic.

libraryguides.binghamton.edu


a student asks a question at the research help desk in Bartle Library

Research Help Desk

Find what you need at every stage of the research process. Get support at the research help desk during drop-in hours, or contact us by email, chat, text or phone.

binghamton.edu/libraries/research/researchhelp


Follow Us!

Get the latest information from the Libraries including updated hours, upcoming events, new collections and resource highlights as well as fun initiatives throughout the year on your favorite social media platform!