: For Students, Faculty, and Staff 
Check out the resources available to you from the University of Minnesota Libraries.
Friends of the Libraries member benefits
Join the Friends of the Libraries and receive these benefits:
- Borrowing privileges and unlimited onsite access to electronic journal, magazine, and newspaper subscriptions at all Twin Cities campus libraries (for members at the $80 level and above, or $40 for members of the UMN Alumni Association and the UMN Retirees Association).
- Invitations to lectures, exhibit openings, author readings, and other special events at the University Libraries.
- Discounts at the University of Minnesota Bookstore located in Coffman Memorial Union
Learn more about the Friends of the Libraries
Subscribe to UMN Libraries News & Events
Archives and Special Collections
Our Archives and Special Collections is one of the largest among universities in the United States. A few of the notable special collections include the Tretter Collection in GLBT Studies, the James Ford Bell Library — home to the rare and valuable 1602 map created by Mateo Ricci — the world-renowned Kerlan Collection of Children’s Literature, and the largest collection of Sherlock Holmes materials in the world.
These unique and rare items are available to the public and can be viewed in our reading room by appointment. We also host exhibits, which feature our collections, and the First Fridays event series, held October through May.
Specialized U of M Libraries resources
- UMedia: open access to digitized materials from across the University of Minnesota
- Maps: digital maps, aerial photographs of Minneapolis, and more
- University Experts: Check out research expertise of University faculty
Electronic Library of Minnesota
The University Libraries’ Minitex service provides access to thousands of digital publications (books, journals, newspapers) via its Electronic Library of Minnesota service [available for Minnesota residents].
Online collections
Minnesota Digital Library
The Minnesota Digital Library provides access to digital versions of photographs, documents, and correspondence from libraries, museums, and historical societies throughout the state.
Digital Public Library of America
The Minnesota Digital Library also contributes its content and those of its Minnesota partners to the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA). The DPLA is a great resource for teachers and others interested in American history and original documentation from around the country, including thematic exhibits.
HathiTrust Digital Library
The HathiTrust Digital Library brings together the immense digital collections of more than 100 major research institutions and libraries, including the University of Minnesota Libraries, preserving these records securely for use today and in the future.