The Henry Whittemore Library, located on the campus of Framingham State University in Framingham, Massachusetts, is a comprehensive academic library that serves the educational and research needs of the university's students, faculty, and staff. The library is named after Henry Whittemore, a local businessman and philanthropist who was a long-time supporter of the university. With a collection of over 200,000 print and electronic volumes, the library provides access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, databases, and digital media.
History and Architecture
The Henry Whittemore Library was built in 1969 and has undergone several renovations and expansions since its opening. The library’s architecture is a blend of modern and traditional styles, with a mix of brick, glass, and steel exterior walls. The building features a large atrium that provides natural light and a sense of openness, as well as a variety of study spaces, including quiet areas, group study rooms, and collaborative workspaces. The library’s design has been recognized for its functionality and aesthetic appeal, receiving awards for its innovative use of space and technology.
Collections and Resources
The Henry Whittemore Library’s collections include a wide range of materials, including books, journals, databases, and digital media. The library’s print collection consists of over 150,000 volumes, with a strong focus on the humanities, social sciences, and education. The library also provides access to over 50,000 electronic journals and databases, including major academic databases such as JSTOR, EBSCO, and ProQuest. In addition to its print and electronic collections, the library also offers a variety of digital media, including streaming videos, audiobooks, and e-books.
| Collection Type | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Print Books | 150,000+ |
| E-Books | 20,000+ |
| Print Journals | 500+ |
| E-Journals | 50,000+ |
| Databases | 100+ |
Services and Programs
The Henry Whittemore Library offers a range of services and programs to support the educational and research needs of the university community. These services include research assistance, instruction, and outreach, as well as technology support and equipment lending. The library also offers a variety of programs and events, including author readings, book discussions, and exhibits, that promote literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement.
Research Assistance
The Henry Whittemore Library provides research assistance to students, faculty, and staff through a variety of channels, including in-person consultations, phone and email support, and online chat. The library’s research assistants are trained to provide guidance on finding and evaluating sources, as well as using databases and other research tools. The library also offers research workshops and tutorials on topics such as information literacy, citation management, and database searching.
- One-on-one research consultations
- Phone and email support
- Online chat support
- Research workshops and tutorials
What are the library's hours of operation?
+The Henry Whittemore Library is open Monday through Thursday from 8am to 10pm, Friday from 8am to 5pm, Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 10pm. Hours may vary during holidays and breaks.
How do I access the library's databases and e-journals from off campus?
+To access the library's databases and e-journals from off campus, you will need to log in with your university username and password. You can find more information on remote access on the library's website.
In conclusion, the Henry Whittemore Library is a vibrant and dynamic academic library that plays a critical role in supporting the educational and research needs of the Framingham State University community. With its comprehensive collections, robust services, and innovative programs, the library is an essential resource for students, faculty, and staff, and a hub of academic and intellectual activity on campus.
