Invest in resources that support more than 70,000 learners and researchers
Library resources provide every student with the tools they need to explore new ideas, conduct groundbreaking research, and reach their full potential. As part of Australia’s largest domestic educator, the library plays a vital role in directly supporting the best learning outcomes for more than 70,0000 Adelaide University students and providing resources to more than 5,000 researchers – contributing to our position as a premier research-intensive university.
Each year, the library raises much-needed funds to purchase additional key resources, which would not be possible to secure without the help of our donor community.
With your support today, the library can continue to expand its collection of books, journals, rare manuscripts, digital assets, and cutting-edge technologies that drive both research and learning. These resources are essential for advancing discoveries in areas like climate change, artificial intelligence, health, and more.
History of the library
The historical Barr Smith Library originated in the Mitchell Building in the 1890's. Originally named the University of Adelaide Library, it was re-named in 1899 in honour of one of its greatest benefactors, Robert Barr Smith.
In honour of his father, Tom Elder Barr Smith financed the construction of a separate building to house the library, and the new Barr Smith Library was officially opened in 1932. Today, the reading room is still a popular study area for students.
With thanks to our donors, the library is able to invest in essential resources, which support students and researchers to excel.
Our library network
Adelaide University is harnessing the unique history, resources, expertise and innovative practices of the founding institutions to create a library network that is a unified, dynamic hub of knowledge and learning.
With more than 2.4 million resources – including books, CDs, digitised content and almost 1.3 million electronic resources, the library supports more than 70,000 learners and researchers each year and sets up our University for success. Equitable access to electronic resources, online services and expert support ensures that regional, remote and off-campus learners are as well served as those on campus.
Across eight metropolitan campus locations, the library network provides a wide variety of study environments, cultural spaces, resources and services.
Our eight metropolitan campus locations include:
Barr Smith Library
Bookman Building Library
Law Library
Jeffrey Smart Library
Magill Campus Library
Mawson Lakes Campus Library
Roseworthy Campus Library
Waite Campus Library.