The University of San Francisco Library delivers research support, collaborative study spaces, and diverse digital collections to a global student body. Librarians work closely with faculty to align resources with curriculum and emerging scholarship needs across business, law, health sciences, and the arts.
As a Jesuit university hub for innovation and ethics, USF Library invests in technologies, instruction, and community partnerships that promote equitable access and scholarly impact in the heart of San Francisco.
| Library Name | Primary Campus | Digital Collections | Research Support Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of San Francisco Library | Dobie Campus | Over 200 online databases | Business, Law, Health Sciences |
| Biller Financial Resources Center | Separate facility | Special business archives | Corporate finance, entrepreneurship |
| Koret Campus | Main undergraduate hub | Multimedia and open educational resources | Undergraduate success, global engagement |
| Geraci Law Library | Law campus | Regulatory and case law databases | Legal research, public interest law |
Research Collaboration and Study Support
Instruction and Reference Services
USF Library offers discipline-specific research consultations, course-integrated instruction, and one-on reference sessions. Librarians design assignments that emphasize critical evaluation of sources and ethical use of information across disciplines.
Learning Spaces and Technology
Collaborative group rooms, quiet study zones, and multimedia studios support project-based learning. Robust Wi-Fi, assistive technologies, and adaptable furniture create an inclusive environment for students with varied learning needs.
Digital Collections and Access
Content Scope and Licensing
The library provides licensed access to journals, ebooks, datasets, and streaming media while negotiating sustainable pricing models. Open access initiatives help increase the visibility and impact of faculty and student scholarship worldwide.
Preservation and Discovery
Digital repositories preserve theses, dissertations, and special collections, making them searchable and citable. Unified search platforms connect users to physical and digital holdings across multiple libraries and partner institutions.
Community Engagement and Social Impact
Partnerships and Public Programs
Community lectures, exhibitions, and internships connect students and faculty with local organizations. These experiences reinforce civic engagement and ethical leadership in professional practice and public service.
Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives
Collections and programming highlight voices from underrepresented groups, supporting a culturally responsive curriculum. Outreach efforts aim to reduce barriers to information and create welcoming spaces for all members of the USF community.
Planning Your Library Experience at USF
- Use subject liaison contacts to align research consultations with course milestones and thesis timelines.
- Leverage digital collections and interlibrary loan to expand sources beyond local holdings.
- Schedule group study rooms early during peak assignment periods to secure collaborative space.
- Participate in library workshops on data management, citation tools, and information literacy.
- Report access issues promptly so licensing and technology teams can resolve them quickly.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I request a research consultation with a subject librarian at USF Library?
Use the library website to schedule a one-on-one session, specify your topic and course, and the librarian will prepare tailored resources and search strategies for your project.
Can off-campus students access the same databases as on-campus users at University of San Francisco Library?
Yes, VPN and single sign-on through the student portal provide full remote access to licensed databases, ensuring equitable access regardless of location.
What should I do if I need assistive technology or accommodations in the library at USF?
Contact the Disability Resource Center and library staff in advance so they can arrange adaptive equipment, accessible study rooms, and format conversions for course materials.
How are open access and copyright handled for faculty and student publications at USF Library?
The library offers repositories, copyright guidance, and open licensing options to help faculty and students share their work legally while preserving institutional ownership and attribution.