What the University of Michigan Library Is
The University of Michigan Library system in Ann Arbor is a destination for scholars, students, and visitors, known for academic research, historical collections, and notable architecture. It includes over 20 specialized libraries, with millions of volumes and unique archival collections. Its branches serve fields across the humanities, sciences, and early American history.
The Harlan Hatcher Graduate Library is the main research library, while the Bentley Historical Library preserves university and Michigan history. The library system is also part of Ann Arbor’s intellectual and cultural life, supporting research, public events, and digital scholarship.
For current details on hours, tours, and collections, consult the University of Michigan Library, Bentley Historical Library, and Ann Arbor District Library.
History
Early Foundations and the Move to Ann Arbor
Founded in Detroit in 1817, the University of Michigan moved to Ann Arbor in 1837 after a land offer from the Ann Arbor Land Company. The chosen site, now the university’s Central Campus, was then a mixture of farmland and orchards (ohmyfacts.com; apps.lib.umich.edu). The move established a lasting partnership between the university and the city, and the library system became a cornerstone of academic and civic life.
Growth and Architectural Evolution of the Library
The library began modestly and grew alongside changing educational trends and technology. The Harlan Hatcher Graduate Library has a limestone façade, grand reading rooms, and historical murals. Specialized branches include the Shapiro Undergraduate Library and Bentley Historical Library (Bentley Historical Library).
University of Michigan Library: Role in Ann Arbor’s Culture
The system’s 20 branches house over 11 million volumes, making it the eighth-largest academic library in North America (U-M Library System). Libraries including Bentley, Clements, and the Law Library serve as research centers and public cultural venues (guides.lib.umich.edu).
What to See
Architectural Heritage and Design
The library buildings reflect the university’s architectural development. The Harlan Hatcher Graduate Library was designed by Albert Kahn in 1920, with Indiana limestone, classical motifs, and grand interiors (e-a-a.com). Its reading rooms have high ceilings, large windows, and classical ornamentation.
The William L. Clements Library, also designed by Kahn in 1923, is in the Italian Renaissance style and has a red-tiled roof, arched windows, and ornate interiors (michigan.org).
The libraries anchor the Diag and sit among significant campus buildings such as Angell Hall and the Law Quadrangle (tour.umich.edu). The Law Library’s Collegiate Gothic design and the underground Smith Library addition are noted for combining innovation with preservation (heymichigan.com). Indiana limestone, red brick, and terra-cotta contribute to a unified campus aesthetic (e-a-a.com).
The Duderstadt Center on North Campus represents contemporary design and technological integration (e-a-a.com). Many library buildings are in Ann Arbor historic districts and have been protected and carefully renovated to maintain their character (e-a-a.com). The Book Arts Studio and hands-on workshops introduce historical printing techniques to new audiences (arts.umich.edu).
Discovering the Harlan Hatcher Graduate Library
Designed by Albert Kahn, Hatcher features Prairie and Arts and Crafts style elements (AADL). Its architectural details include distinctive brick patterns, limestone medallions by Ulysses Ricci, Pompeii-inspired murals, and grand reading rooms with barrel-vaulted ceilings and murals by Gari Melchers.
The library holds millions of volumes, rare books, and digital resources. Special collections include the “War of the Worlds” broadcast archive and rare manuscripts (UM Library).
Bentley Historical Library: Preserving Michigan’s Legacy
Established in 1935, the Bentley Historical Library is the university’s official archives and a repository documenting Michigan’s history. Named for Alvin M. Bentley, it holds over 40,000 linear feet of historical documents, 1.5 million photographs, 55,000 books, and thousands of maps (aadl.org). Located on North Campus, it is open to the public and serves genealogists and historians.
Digital Innovation and Public Accessibility
The library’s Digital Library Services team makes rare materials accessible worldwide. Collaborative projects such as “The Making of Ann Arbor” provide illustrated histories and searchable image databases (aadl.org). These initiatives preserve delicate materials while extending access to broader audiences.
Community Partnerships
Partnerships with the Ann Arbor District Library and other local organizations have led to digitization projects, public programming, and contributions to Michigan’s documented history.
Practical Visiting Information
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Tours
Visiting hours
- Hatcher Graduate Library Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–10:00 PM; Saturday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM.
- Shapiro Undergraduate Library Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–12:00 AM; Saturday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–12:00 AM.
- Bentley Historical Library Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM; closed weekends.
Hatcher’s hours are also listed as Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–10:00 PM, and weekends, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (official website). Hours may vary during holidays and breaks; check the official websites before visiting.
Admission and tickets
Admission is free to University of Michigan libraries and the Bentley Historical Library. Most exhibitions and events are also free, though some may require advance registration. Special events may require tickets.
Guided Tours and Special Exhibits
- Hatcher Graduate Library Guided tours are available upon request for groups and individuals.
- Bentley Historical Library Offers research orientations and occasional public tours.
- Virtual and in-person guided tours are available, often during major campus events and art fairs. They cover library history, architecture, and collections (arts.umich.edu).
Contact library staff to arrange a tour or ask about upcoming events. Hatcher also offers self-guided tours with brochures and digital guides; group tours can be arranged by request (Campus Visitor Guides). Its amenities include study spaces, event rooms, and rotating public exhibits (UM Library Events).
Appointments may be needed for Hatcher special collections (Special Collections Research Center).
Accessibility and Visitor Tips
All buildings are wheelchair accessible. Elevators and accessible restrooms are available in all major buildings, and additional accommodations are available upon request.
Free and paid parking is available nearby. University buses and Ann Arbor city transit serve library locations. Campus and city buses serve the libraries, and parking can fill during peak hours.
Non-flash photography is allowed in public areas. Check with staff for restrictions in special collections or during exhibits.
Tips
Travel Tips for Visitors
Hatcher Library’s reading room and Bentley Historical Library’s landscaped grounds are photo spots. Local favorites including Zingerman’s Deli and Frita Batidos are within walking distance (Your Time to Fly).
Nearby Places
Nearby attractions include the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, Nichols Arboretum, and Kerrytown Historic District. Other nearby destinations include the University of Michigan Museum of Art, Law Quadrangle, and State Street shopping (heymichigan.com).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the visiting hours for University of Michigan libraries?
A: Hours vary by location. Most are open weekdays 8:00 AM–10:00 PM with reduced weekend hours. Check the library website for current details.
Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, admission is generally free; special events may require tickets.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, many branches offer guided or self-guided tours; check events calendars.
Q: Is the library accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, all facilities are wheelchair accessible; additional accommodations are available upon request.
Q: Do I need an appointment for special collections?
A: Some collections require prior arrangements; contact the library in advance.
Q: Can I take photographs inside the library?
A: Non-flash photography is allowed in public areas; check with staff for restrictions in special collections or during exhibits.
