UCSD Libraries Fact Sheet

The UCSD Libraries consist of: the Arts Library, the Mandeville Special Collections Library, the Science & Engineering Library, and the Social Sciences and Humanities Library (all housed in the Geisel Library building); the Biomedical Library; CLICS: The Center for Library and Instructional Computing Services; the Medical Center Library; the International Relations and Pacific Studies Library; and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography Library.

The Geisel Library building, designed in the late 1960s by William Pereira & Associates, has become a Southern California landmark and the visual symbol for UC San Diego. An addition was completed in December 1991, adding 151,413 usable square feet to the existing 121,839 square feet. Designed by Gunnar Birkerts & Associates to complement the strong, geometrical form of the existing library without altering the original silhouette, the addition is underground and surrounds the original structure on three sides. The canyon to the west of the original building is metaphorically recreated to form "daylight canyons" that bring natural light into the underground spaces of the addition. The faceted glass walls, like transparent fault lines in rock, refer to the original geological formation of the area.

The Geisel Library building was featured in the cult classic movie "Attack of the Killer Tomatoes" and in several television shows, including "Star Trek," "Simon and Simon," and "Mission Impossible." The building was named in memory of Theodor (Dr. Seuss) Geisel, in recognition of Audrey S. Geisel's support of the UCSD Libraries. A major portion of the Seuss/Geisel collection of original sketches and verses is housed in the Mandeville Special Collections Library located within Geisel Library. In July 2001, renowned artist John Baldessari and designer Roy Macon transformed the Library's façade and interior foyer to become the fifteenth piece in UCSD's Stuart Collection: "Read, Write, Think, Dream"—reminding us that students are central to the educational mission of the University and essential to the future of the community.

The Libraries' collections and services support undergraduate and graduate instructional programs, as well as advanced research. Individual libraries are organized and staffed to meet the academic objectives of their primary clientele.

UCSD Libraries' Holdings 2007-2008

Library Staff

Library Budget

In 2007-2008