The Sonoma State University Library, located in Rohnert Park, California, is a comprehensive resource center that serves the academic and research needs of the university's students, faculty, and staff. With a rich history dating back to 1961, the library has evolved to become a hub of intellectual inquiry and discovery, providing access to a vast array of print and digital resources.
History and Development
The Sonoma State University Library was established in 1961, shortly after the university’s founding. Initially, the library occupied a small space in the university’s administration building, but as the university grew, so did the library’s collections and services. In 1970, the library moved to its current location, a modern facility designed to meet the needs of a rapidly expanding student body. Over the years, the library has undergone several renovations and expansions, including the addition of a new wing in 2000, which increased the library’s seating capacity and provided more space for collections and technology.
Collections and Resources
The Sonoma State University Library boasts an impressive collection of over 700,000 volumes, including books, journals, magazines, and other materials. The library’s collections are diverse and comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects, from the humanities and social sciences to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. In addition to its physical collections, the library provides access to a vast array of digital resources, including e-books, online journals, and databases. The library is also a member of the California State University (CSU) system’s unified library system, which allows students and faculty to borrow materials from other CSU libraries.
| Collection Type | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Print Books | 450,000 |
| E-books | 200,000 |
| Print Journals | 10,000 |
| Online Databases | 100 |
Services and Programs
The Sonoma State University Library offers a range of services and programs designed to support student success and academic excellence. These include research assistance, instruction and workshops, and technology support. The library’s research assistance program provides students with one-on-one support from experienced librarians, who can help with everything from finding sources to citing references. The library also offers a variety of instruction and workshops, covering topics such as information literacy, research methods, and academic writing. Additionally, the library provides technology support, including assistance with software, hardware, and other technical issues.
Technology and Facilities
The Sonoma State University Library is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and facilities, designed to support student learning and academic success. The library’s technology includes over 100 computers and laptops, as well as a variety of software and hardware tools, such as printers, scanners, and multimedia equipment. The library’s facilities are also designed to promote collaboration and community, with a range of study spaces, including quiet areas, group study rooms, and outdoor seating areas.
- Computer workstations with internet access and Microsoft Office software
- Wireless printing and scanning services
- Group study rooms with whiteboards and multimedia equipment
- Quiet areas and outdoor seating areas for individual study
Community Engagement and Outreach
The Sonoma State University Library is committed to community engagement and outreach, working to build partnerships and collaborations with local organizations, schools, and community groups. The library’s outreach programs include library instruction and research assistance for local schools, as well as partnerships with community organizations to support literacy and education initiatives. The library also hosts a range of events and exhibitions, including author readings, book talks, and art exhibitions, which are open to the public and designed to promote a love of learning and a sense of community.
Partnerships and Collaborations
The Sonoma State University Library has established partnerships with a range of local organizations and community groups, including schools, libraries, and cultural institutions. These partnerships are designed to promote collaboration and resource sharing, as well as to support community outreach and engagement initiatives. The library’s partnerships include the Sonoma County Library, the California State Library, and the North Bay Cooperative Library System, among others.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The library is open Monday through Thursday from 8am to 10pm, Friday from 8am to 5pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 6pm.
How do I access the library’s online resources?
+To access the library’s online resources, including e-books, online journals, and databases, you will need to log in with your university username and password.
Can I borrow materials from other libraries?
+Yes, the library is a member of the California State University (CSU) system’s unified library system, which allows you to borrow materials from other CSU libraries.
