The Sir William Stephenson Library, located in the University of Manitoba, Canada, is a significant resource for students, faculty, and researchers. The library is named after Sir William Stephenson, a renowned Canadian businessman, inventor, and spy who played a crucial role in the development of the Allied intelligence network during World War II. The library's collection includes over 1.5 million volumes, 30,000 journals, and 1.3 million electronic resources, providing access to a vast array of academic materials.
History and Development
The Sir William Stephenson Library has a rich history, dating back to the early 20th century. The library was initially established as the University of Manitoba’s main library, with a collection of approximately 10,000 volumes. Over the years, the library has undergone significant expansions and renovations, with the most recent being the construction of the modern library building in the 1970s. The library was officially named after Sir William Stephenson in 1974, in recognition of his contributions to the university and the country.
Collection and Resources
The Sir William Stephenson Library boasts an impressive collection of academic materials, including books, journals, databases, and electronic resources. The library’s collection is divided into several subject areas, including humanities, social sciences, sciences, and engineering. The library also has a significant collection of rare books, manuscripts, and archival materials, which are housed in the University of Manitoba Archives and Special Collections. Some of the notable resources available at the library include:
| Resource Type | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Print Books | 1,200,000 |
| E-Journals | 30,000 |
| E-Books | 150,000 |
| Databases | 200 |
Services and Facilities
The Sir William Stephenson Library offers a range of services and facilities to support the academic and research needs of its users. Some of the notable services include:
- Research assistance and instruction
- Interlibrary loan and document delivery
- Study spaces and collaboration rooms
- Computer labs and multimedia facilities
- Accessibility services and accommodations
The library also has a number of specialized facilities, including the Dafoe Library, which houses the university's collection of rare books and manuscripts, and the Elizabeth Dafoe Library, which provides access to a range of digital resources and tools.
Technology and Innovation
The Sir William Stephenson Library is committed to providing its users with access to the latest technology and innovative resources. The library has implemented a number of initiatives, including:
- Implementation of a discovery layer to provide users with a single search interface for all library resources
- Development of a digital scholarship center to support the creation and dissemination of digital scholarship
- Introduction of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies to support teaching and learning
What are the library's hours of operation?
+The Sir William Stephenson Library is open Monday to Thursday from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. However, hours may vary during holidays and summer sessions.
How can I access the library's electronic resources from off-campus?
+University of Manitoba students, faculty, and staff can access the library's electronic resources from off-campus by using their UMNetID and password to login to the library's proxy server.
In conclusion, the Sir William Stephenson Library is a vital resource for the University of Manitoba community, providing access to a vast array of academic materials, services, and facilities. The library’s commitment to innovation and technology has enabled it to stay at the forefront of academic librarianship, supporting the teaching, learning, and research needs of its users.
