The University of Cape Town Libraries, comprising a main library and nine branch libraries, house a rich and diverse array of research materials and undergraduate resources.
The Libraries' collections contain more than 1,1 million print volumes and include over 50,000 journal titles, of which more than 34,900 are e-journals. UCT scholars can search the world's scholarly literature using an excellent collection of 166 electronic research databases, made available via the Libraries' web site.
In keeping with its central role in the academic life of the university, the Chancellor Oppenheimer Library - UCT's main library - lies at the heart of the Groote Schuur campus.
With its state-of-the-art design and organisation drawing on the very best models of university libraries world-wide, this bright modern library offers spacious reading areas, high-end computer workstations, audio-visual viewing areas, both intranet and wireless internet access, and ample photocopying and printing facilities.
A team of subject-specialist librarians is on hand to assist, train, and advise students on how to use the collections to their best advantage.
One of the Libraries' most popular and well-used sections is the Knowledge Commons, a dedicated undergraduate facility, and the first of its kind in Africa, where students can access the Libraries' electronic journals and databases, use quality software and IT equipment, and receive assistance in researching and writing their reports, essays, and assignments. Offering 105 computer workstations, group project rooms, printing, scanning, and copying services, plus a modern, fully-equipped training lab, this facility provides a one-stop-shop for the undergraduate student who wants to excel.
Another notable section is the newly-opened Research Commons—a well-appointed research facility specifically designed to cater for the information and workspace needs of academics and students at master’s and doctoral level. Accessed via the Humanities section of the Chancellor Oppenheimer Library, the Research Commons offers spacious workstations housing high-end PCs with an excellent selection of software applications; laptops for use within the Commons; high-speed internet connections; printing, scanning, and copying facilities; a seminar room for collaborative work; and a comfortable lounge where users can relax with a cup of tea or coffee. Experienced library staff are on hand to assist.
UCT Libraries' nine branches are situated on the various UCT campuses, close to the academic departments they serve.
Most well known of these is the African Studies Library which holds extensive Africana collections that are consulted by scholars from all over the world.
World-renowned collections are also held by Rare Books & Special Collections and the Manuscripts & Archives Department.
Other major branch libraries include the Health Sciences Library, the Brand van Zyl Law Library, the Hiddingh Hall Library, and the W.H. Bell Music Library.
For more detailed information and access to the Libraries' resources, visit UCT Libraries online.
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Branch libraries & departments
African Studies
Bolus Library
Built Environment
Commerce
Government Publications
Health Sciences
Hiddingh Hall
Humanities
ICH Library
Jewish Studies
Knowledge Commons
Law Library
Manuscripts & Archives
Music Library
Rare Books & Special Collections
Research Commons
Science & Engineering