Glasgow University Library

Glasgow University Library is a research library at the University of Glasgow housing over 2.5 million books across twelve floors in a concrete structure. The facility provides over 800 computers and specialized research materials for students and scholars.

The library traces back to 1451 when the University of Glasgow was established, with the first recorded book donations arriving in November 1475. The current building dates to 1968 and was later recognized as one of Scotland's most important post-war structures.

The Special Collections preserve manuscripts and rare books that tell stories of Scottish history, law, science, and medicine through the centuries. Visitors can see how these materials reflect the intellectual development of Scotland and its people.

The library remains open nearly year-round, staying accessible 361 days per year for users seeking computers and study spaces. The facility contains specialized areas for different subjects and digital resources, so visitors should allow time to navigate the building.

The building was constructed in 1968 as a modernist structure from the post-war era, recognized by DoCoMoMo as one of sixty essential Scottish architectural monuments. This recognition marks it as a key example of Scotland's architectural heritage from that period.

Location: Glasgow City

Inception: 1451

Website: http://gla.ac.uk/services/library

GPS coordinates: 55.87330,-4.28900

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:03