The F. Wilbur Gingrich Library is central to the intellectual and cultural life of the College and it provides information and services to the academic community in support of teaching and research. The reference and general collections of more than 247,000 books, periodicals, microforms and audiovisual materials support both the curriculum and general interests. In addition students can access more than 20,000 electonic books and 23,000 print and online magazine and newspaper subscriptions.The Gingrich Library provides not only information but also instruction and other services. The collection provides the foundation for research and study on all disciplines taught at the college.
Digital resources include databases from major database vendors, including EbscoHost, FirstSearch, Lexis-Nexis, ProQuest and WilsonWeb. These sources connect to over 100 different book, journal and newspaper databases and provide access to thousands of online, full-text journals. A complete list is available online.
All students have access to the Gingrich Library online catalog, electronic books, and all of its electronic databases 24 hours a day, seven days a week from on-campus, from either on or off-campus. Students can request, free of charge, almost any book or article through our interlibrary loan system. Librarians are always ready to answer questions and help students find materials in person, by e-mail or by phone. Participation in the AskHerePA reference support service ensures that Albright students can get online assistance 24/7 from Albright librarians or librarians from other institutions across the United States.
The Audiovisual/Educational Technology Department houses a Media Services center and a computer-training laboratory. The Holocaust Library and Resource Center collects Holocaust-related materials in various formats. The Special Collections Department includes rare and important local and historical materials and the College Archives. The Curriculum Library and the Children's Book Collection support the College's education programs.
The Library/Administration building was constructed in 1963 with a major addition in 1975. It can accommodate up to 300 library researchers at tables, individual study carrels and casual seating. In addition to a wireless network, the Library maintains group study rooms, one equipped with a computer and audiovisual devices. The lobby area provides access to additional tables, chairs, vending machines and Internet ports.
The Gingrich Library is a member of the Pennsylvania Library Information Network (PALINET), the Online Computer Library Center (OCLC), the Associated College Libraries of Central Pennsylvania (ACLCP) and Libraries Very Interested in Sharing (LVIS). As a member of ACLCP, a consortium of more than 20 college and research libraries, the library can provide access through an automated catalog to more than four million volumes held by member libraries.
The Gingrich Library is an integral part of the academic experience. The staff gives highest priority to assisting students in their use of information and the library.
A copy of our Library Mission Statement is available for review.
