Odegaard Undergraduate Library

Odegaard Undergraduate Library Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Seattle Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The Charles E. Odegaard Undergraduate Library (OUGL) stands as a central pillar of academic and campus life at the University of Washington in Seattle. Since its opening in 1972, OUGL has been dedicated to undergraduate education, offering innovative spaces, robust support services, and a welcoming atmosphere for all students and visitors. Renowned for its architectural transformation and commitment to inclusivity, OUGL is also a gateway to exploring the rich history and culture of both the UW campus and greater Seattle.

This comprehensive guide covers visiting hours, admission policies, directions, accessibility, and details about the library’s historical and cultural significance. You’ll also find tips for making the most of your visit, information on borrowing privileges, and highlights of nearby campus and city attractions. For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official UW Odegaard Library website.

Introduction
Visiting Hours and Admission
Directions, Parking, and Transportation
Accessibility and Inclusive Services
Library Services and Amenities
Historical and Architectural Highlights
Special Events, Tours, and Photography
Nearby Campus and Seattle Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Tips for a Smooth Visit
References and Further Reading

Visiting Hours and Admission

Regular Hours

Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Please note: Hours may change during university holidays, breaks, or exam periods. For the latest schedule, visit the UW Libraries website.

Admission and Access

No tickets or admission fee required. OUGL is open to the public during regular hours.
Husky Card: Required for students, faculty, and staff to check out materials and for after-hours access.
Visitors: May use library spaces and most on-site materials, but borrowing privileges are limited.
Guided Tours: Offered occasionally—check the UW Libraries Events page for updates.

Directions, Parking, and Transportation

Location and Address

Odegaard Undergraduate Library
4000 15th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98195
Located adjacent to Red Square at the heart of the UW Seattle campus

Getting There

Public Transit: Easily accessible by King County Metro buses and the Link Light Rail (University Station).
Parking: Visitor parking is available in nearby campus lots and garages such as Central Plaza Garage and South Gatehouse. See UW Transportation Services for details on parking fees and maps.
Biking: The campus is bike-friendly, with ample racks and bike lanes.

Tip: Use navigation apps or the UW Campus Map for real-time directions.

Accessibility and Inclusive Services

OUGL is fully committed to accessibility and inclusivity:

Entrances: Step-free main entries with ramps and elevators.
Restrooms: Accessible facilities on every floor.
Assistive Technology: Available at computer stations, including screen readers and adaptive hardware.
Study Spaces: Adjustable furniture and reservable quiet rooms.
Service Animals: Welcome in accordance with university policy.

Contact staff in advance for specific requests or visit UW Disability Resources for Students for more information.

Library Services and Amenities

Study Spaces and Technology

First Floor: Collaborative areas, reservable study rooms, individual tables, and group booths.
Second Floor: Largest computer lab on campus, printers (color and B&W), scanners, and the Computer Vet desk for tech support.
Third Floor: Main book collections and additional quiet study zones.

Wi-Fi: Free campus Wi-Fi is available throughout the building.

Writing and Research Support

Odegaard Writing & Research Center (OWRC): Provides free tutoring for writing projects, research help, and support for multilingual students. Learn more at Odegaard Writing & Research Center.

Borrowing Privileges

UW Affiliates: Use Husky Card to check out materials.
Visitors: May use materials on-site; borrowing requires a UW Libraries account.
Visiting Scholars and Alumni: Special borrowing privileges apply; see U District Services.

Historical and Architectural Highlights

Named after Charles E. Odegaard, transformative UW president (1958–1973).
Architectural Design: Originally by Kirk, Wallace, McKinley AIA and Associates; major renovation by Miller Hull Partnership (2012–2013).
Awards: 2014 AIA Institute Honor Award for Interior Architecture; 2016 Library Journal Landmark Academic Library Award.
Features: Brutalist exterior, modern interior with a massive skylight, sustainable materials, and flexible study areas.

OUGL reflects both the university’s tradition and its commitment to 21st-century learning and community engagement.

Special Events, Tours, and Photography

Events: OUGL hosts academic workshops, lectures, and special study sessions—see UW Libraries Events Calendar.
Tours: Available through the Visitor Center (UW Visitor Center).
Photography: Permitted for personal use. Red Square and the library’s architecture offer excellent photo opportunities.

Nearby Campus and Seattle Attractions

On-Campus

Red Square: Central plaza for campus events, flanked by Suzzallo Library and Kane Hall.
Suzzallo Library: Renowned for its Collegiate Gothic architecture and grand reading room (Suzzallo Library).
The Quad: Famous for cherry blossoms in spring.
By George Café: Located inside OUGL for refreshments.

Nearby Seattle Sights

Burke Museum: Natural history and culture exhibits (Trek Zone).
Neptune Theatre: Historic performing arts venue.
University Book Store: Independent bookstore on University Way NE.
Husky Stadium & Rainier Vista: Scenic campus views.
Seattle Central Library, Museum of Flight: Notable city landmarks.
Washington Park Arboretum, Gas Works Park: Outdoor escapes for nature lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Odegaard Undergraduate Library’s hours?
A: Generally Monday–Thursday 8 AM–10 PM; Friday 8 AM–6 PM; Saturday 10 AM–6 PM; Sunday 12 PM–10 PM. Always verify hours online.

Q: Is there an admission fee or do I need a ticket?
A: No ticket or fee is required for entry; a Husky Card is needed for borrowing privileges and after-hours access.

Q: Can I bring my pet or service animal?
A: Service animals are welcome; pets are not permitted.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through the Visitor Center and for special events—check schedules in advance.

Q: Is Odegaard fully accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and assistive technology.

Tips for a Smooth Visit

Check hours before visiting, especially during holidays or exam periods.
Bring your Husky Card if you’re a UW affiliate; visitors bring photo ID for after-hours access.
Reserve study spaces during busy times.
Explore Red Square, Suzzallo Library, and the Quad for a complete campus experience.
Download the Audiala app for real-time updates, campus maps, and guided tours.
Contact staff in advance for accessibility or special requests.

References and Further Reading

For images, virtual tours, and interactive maps, visit the official UW Libraries website.

We hope this guide helps you plan a rewarding and seamless visit to the Odegaard Undergraduate Library and the University of Washington campus. For additional tips and the latest updates, download the Audiala app or follow UW Libraries on social media.