Cal Poly Humboldt Library

The Cal Poly Humboldt Library is a comprehensive research library that serves the students, faculty, and staff of California Polytechnic University, Humboldt. Located in Arcata, California, the library is a vital part of the university's academic community, providing access to a wide range of resources, services, and expertise to support teaching, learning, and research.

History and Mission

The Cal Poly Humboldt Library has a long history dating back to the early 20th century, when the university was first established as a normal school. Over the years, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of the university community, with a strong focus on providing access to information, promoting literacy, and supporting academic success. The library’s mission is to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment that fosters intellectual curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, while also promoting the values of diversity, equity, and social responsibility.

Collections and Resources

The Cal Poly Humboldt Library boasts a diverse collection of over 700,000 volumes, including books, journals, magazines, and other materials. The library also provides access to a wide range of digital resources, including e-books, online journals, and databases, as well as specialized collections such as the University Archives and the Special Collections department. The library’s collections are curated to support the university’s academic programs, with a strong focus on subjects such as forestry, wildlife management, and environmental science.

In addition to its physical and digital collections, the library also offers a range of services and resources to support student success, including research assistance, tutoring, and study spaces. The library's friendly and knowledgeable staff are always available to help students navigate the library's resources and find the information they need to succeed.

Technology and Digital Initiatives

The Cal Poly Humboldt Library is committed to providing students and faculty with access to the latest technology and digital tools to support teaching, learning, and research. The library offers a range of digital initiatives, including online tutorials, webinars, and workshops, as well as a makerspace equipped with 3D printers, virtual reality equipment, and other cutting-edge technology.

Partnerships and Collaborations

The Cal Poly Humboldt Library is committed to building partnerships and collaborations with other libraries, archives, and cultural institutions to promote the sharing of knowledge and resources. The library is a member of the California Digital Library and the Online Computer Library Center (OCLC), which provides access to a vast network of libraries and resources worldwide.

In addition to its partnerships with other libraries, the Cal Poly Humboldt Library also collaborates with faculty and staff across the university to develop innovative programs and services that support student success. The library's information literacy program, for example, provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to navigate the complex information landscape and succeed in their academic and professional careers.