The George Washington University (GWU) Gelman Library is a comprehensive research library that serves as the main library for the university. Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., the library is a hub for academic and research activities, providing access to a vast collection of resources, services, and facilities. In this research guide, we will delve into the various aspects of the Gelman Library, exploring its collections, services, and features that support the academic and research needs of the GWU community.
Library Collections
The Gelman Library boasts an extensive collection of over 2 million volumes, including books, journals, databases, and other digital resources. The library’s collections are diverse and interdisciplinary, covering a wide range of subjects, such as social sciences, humanities, science and technology, and business and economics. The library is also a depository for United States Government Documents, providing access to a vast array of government publications, reports, and data.
Special Collections
The Gelman Library is home to several special collections, including the George Washington University Archives, which preserves the university’s historical records and documents. The library also houses the Washingtoniana Collection, a unique collection of materials related to the history and culture of Washington, D.C. Additionally, the library has a Rare Book Collection, featuring rare and unique books, manuscripts, and other materials that support research in various fields.
| Collection | Number of Volumes |
|---|---|
| Books | 1,500,000 |
| Journals and Serials | 30,000 |
| Databases | 500 |
| Government Documents | 200,000 |
Library Services
The Gelman Library offers a range of services designed to support the academic and research needs of the GWU community. These services include research assistance, instruction and training, interlibrary loan and document delivery, and study spaces and facilities. The library also provides access to technology, including computers, printers, and scanners, as well as digital media equipment and software to support various research and academic activities.
Research Support
The Gelman Library provides research support through its team of experienced librarians and staff. The library offers one-on-one research consultations, research workshops, and online research guides to help students, faculty, and staff navigate the library’s collections and resources. The library also partners with other GWU departments and units to provide embedded librarianship and information literacy instruction to support the development of research and information literacy skills.
- Research assistance and consultation
- Instruction and training sessions
- Interlibrary loan and document delivery services
- Study spaces and facilities, including group study rooms and quiet areas
- Access to technology, including computers, printers, and scanners
What are the library's hours of operation?
+The Gelman Library's hours of operation vary depending on the semester and academic calendar. During the fall and spring semesters, the library is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 am to 12:00 am, Friday from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 12:00 am. During the summer and winter breaks, the library's hours are reduced. It is recommended to check the library's website for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation.
How do I access the library's online resources?
+The Gelman Library provides access to its online resources, including databases, e-journals, and e-books, through its website. To access these resources, you will need to log in with your GWU NetID and password. If you are off-campus, you may need to use the library's VPN or proxy server to access certain resources.
Library Facilities and Technology
The Gelman Library is a state-of-the-art facility that provides a range of study spaces and technologies to support academic and research activities. The library features individual and group study areas, quiet areas, and collaborative workspaces. The library is also equipped with advanced technology, including computers, printers, scanners, and digital media equipment, as well as software and tools to support various research and academic activities.
Digital Scholarship and Innovation
The Gelman Library is committed to supporting digital scholarship and innovation at GWU. The library provides access to a range of digital tools and platforms, including digital repositories, data management tools, and digital scholarship platforms. The library also offers consultation and training services to support faculty and students in their use of digital tools and technologies to support research and academic activities.
- Digital scholarship and innovation support
- Access to digital tools and platforms, including digital repositories and data management tools
- Consultation and training services to support the use of digital tools and technologies
- Collaborative workspaces and meeting rooms with advanced technology and audiovisual equipment
