Library Unbound: Showcasing UBC Library resources
Library Unbound is all about showing that UBC Library is way more than books. From digital media labs to video collections, interactive kits, writing support and rare archives, there’s a lot to explore across the Vancouver campus. Whether you’re studying, creating, researching or just need a quiet place to think, the library has tools, spaces and support to help you get it done.
Select a library below to explore some of the unique resources and spaces each one offers. Check back often as more resources are highlighted from each branch!
 |
Asian Library: A Space for Language, Culture and DiscoveryLocated in the iconic Asian Centre, the UBC Asian Library offers one of the largest Asian-language collections in Canada — with materials in Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Hindi, Punjabi and more. Explore the language-learning section, flip through the graphic novel collection or browse the DVDs for films from across Asia. The library also features three floors of study space, including moveable couches for group work and collaboration. Whether you’re conducting research, learning a new language or connecting with cultural traditions, the Asian Library invites you to discover a rich world of knowledge right here on the UBC Vancouver campus.
Visit the UBC Asian Library website:
|
Some highlights from Asian Library
Language learning sectionUBC Asian Library’s language-learning section is available at the UBC Asian Library and online to help users learn languages at various levels (beginner, intermediate and advanced) and via different subjects. |
Graphic Novels sectionThe Graphic Novels (manga/manhua/manhwa) section is located on the upper floor of the UBC Asian Library. With new titles added regularly to the collection, this is the perfect spot to visit if you want to get into the world of graphic novels. |
DVD CollectionThe UBC Asian Library has a significant collection of Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Korean and Punjabi films, including award-winning titles and films from across the regions. Search the online catalogue or visit the library in person to explore and borrow from the collection. |
Study SpacesThe Asian Library offers a range of study spaces to support both quiet focus and group work. The upper floor features study tables beneath a distinctive skylight, along with casual seating near the language-learning collection and Great Reads shelves. On the main floor, students can work at tables overlooking the forested area or book one of two seminar rooms for group study. The lower floor, while primarily housing collections, includes a small study table and three computer workstations. |
 |
David Lam: Where Business Meets BalanceThe David Lam Management Research Library at UBC Sauder is a dynamic space where academic focus meets creative flexibility. Alongside a strong collection of business and management resources, the library offers a Digital Media Lab for content creation, the Leith Wheeler Lab for financial research, docking stations and an Active Workstation to keep you moving. Need a break? Enjoy the Great Reads collection, practice playing piano or step outside to one of the outdoor patios for a breath of fresh air. Whether you’re studying, building or recharging, David Lam Library helps you find your rhythm.
Visit the David Lam Library website:
|
Some highlights from David Lam Library
Digital Media LabThe Digital Media Lab (CLC 221) is equipped with four dual-screen Apple Mac workstations with access to premiere video, photo, and audio editing software. It also offers a soundproof recording room, a high-quality scanner and a video-capture station. |
Outdoor Patio SpaceA hidden gem on campus, the David Lam Library’s outdoor patio offers a quiet, open-air space perfect for reading, studying, or taking a break between classes. Surrounded by greenery and tucked away from busy walkways, it’s an ideal spot to recharge and enjoy a little sunshine while staying connected to your work. |
Charging StationRunning low on battery? Stop by the charging station at David Lam |
Study SupportDavid Lam Library offers a variety of study environments, from open tables and computer workstations to booth seating and bookable group-study rooms. Outside the designated quiet zones, it has a casual, collaborative atmosphere, which is often full of students working on group projects or meeting on the outdoor patio. For focused work, the Library provides dedicated silent study areas on the main floor and upstairs. Students can also access research support from business librarians for help with company and industry research, database searching and citation guidance. Together, these spaces and services make David Lam Library an inviting hub for studying, collaborating and conducting business research at UBC. |
 |
Irving K. Barber Learning Centre: Your Hub for Study, Research and CreativityThe Irving K. Barber Learning Centre (IKB) offers a variety of spaces and resources to support your learning needs. You can find quiet focus in the Ridington Room, Nass Reading Room or Musqueam Reading Room, get hands-on experience in the Digital Media Room and take in history at the Chung | Lind Gallery. IKB is also home to the Music, Art and Architecture Library, which focuses on creative disciplines, while the Rare Books and Special Collections and University Archives holds unique archives and historic materials. The Chapman Learning Commons and Centre for Writing and Scholarly Communication provide workshops and academic support to help students succeed. IKB is a versatile space for research, creation and collaboration.
Visit the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre website:
|
Some highlights from Irving K. Barber Learning Centre
Chung | Lind GalleryThe Chung and Lind collections uncover a complex era of settler expansion, cultural collision and global trade during the Gold Rush. These stories of conflict, adaptation and connection invite us to reflect on how the past continues to shape the present. Learn more at the Chung | Lind Gallery website: |
Music, Art & Architecture LibraryLocated on the 3rd and 4th floors of IKBLC, the Music, Art & Architecture Library supports research in the visual and performing arts, design and architecture. With specialized collections, quiet study spaces and tools like the DIY Media Room, it’s a creative hub for inspiration and discovery. Learn more at the Music, Art & Architecture website:
maa.library.ubc.ca |
Chapman Learning CommonsThe Chapman Learning Commons, located on the 3rd floor of IKBLC, offers academic support, peer coaching, workshops and study tools to help you succeed. It’s a collaborative space where you can build skills, get help and connect with others in your learning journey. Learn more at the CLC website: |
Digital Media RoomRecord high quality video and audio at the DIY Media Studio. The sound buffered DIY Media Studio provides access to microphones, a mixing board, a video camera and a Mac computer with audio and video software. Learn more about the room:
learningcommons.ubc.ca/diy-media-studio/ |
The Centre for Writing and Scholarly CommunicationThe Centre for Writing and Scholarly Communication (CWSC) helps students and researchers strengthen their writing across all disciplines. Through workshops, consultations and events, CWSC supports everything from essays and theses t o grant proposals and publishing. Based in IKB, the CWSC is a go-to service for building confidence and clarity in academic writing. Learn more at the CWSC website: |
Study AreasThe Irving K. Barber Learning Centre offers study spaces on every floor, ranging from open collaborative areas with group tables, booth seating, computers and plenty of charging access, to quieter spots for individual focus. Students can settle into bright reading rooms or choose silent study spaces like the Ridington Room and the Nass Reading Room for a distraction-free environment. For group work, the Learning Centre provides bookable study rooms with whiteboards on Levels 1 and 2. The Music, Art & Architecture (MAA) Library on Levels 3 and 4 also offers group-study rooms with whiteboards, along with two Digital Media Rooms equipped for multimedia projects. Together, these spaces make IKBLC one of the most versatile and collaborative study environments on campus. |
 |
Koerner: For Deep Thinkers and Big IdeasKoerner Library is UBC’s central hub for research in the humanities and social sciences. Designed for quiet study and academic focus, it offers rich collections, dedicated reading areas and expert support services. The library is also home to the Research Commons, where students and researchers can access workshops, writing consultations and data services. Whether you’re deep into a thesis or starting a new project, Koerner provides the space and support to help ideas grow.
Visit the Koerner Library website:
|
Some highlights from Koerner Library
VideomaticaExplore Koerner Library’s Videomatica Collection, a curated selection of films on Blu-ray, DVD and VHS, featuring everything from indie gems to international cinema. Perfect for film lovers, researchers and anyone looking to dive into visual storytelling. |
Research CommonsThe Research Commons is a dedicated space for research support and skill-building. It offers workshops, one-on-one consultations and services for writing, data analysis, citation management and more, helping you move your research forward at every stage. Learn more at the Research Commons website:
researchcommons.library.ubc.ca |
Microform CollectionKoerner Library houses extensive microform collections, many not listed in the catalogue. These collections preserve rare, fragile and historical materials in a compact format, giving researchers access to sources that might otherwise be difficult to find. For a full overview, consult the Microforms Major Collections List or ask for help at the Level 3 service desk. |
Study SpacesKoerner Library offers study spaces on every floor, including open tables, quiet desks, silent zones and computer workstations to support a range of study styles. The Research Commons adds specialized areas such as graduate-only quiet rooms, consultation spaces and bookable rooms for collaborative research and digital scholarship. Students can also apply for a personal study carrel for long-term, dedicated workspace. Together, these spaces make Koerner Library a central hub for focused study and advanced research at UBC. |
 |
Law Library: Gateway to Legal Research and ScholarshipLocated in Allard Hall, UBC’s Law Library is the central resource for legal research on campus, offering access to case law, legislation, academic journals and specialized legal databases. Designed for focused, independent study, the library features quiet spaces that support deep thinking and concentration. Whether you’re preparing for class, writing a paper or diving into complex legal topics, knowledgeable staff are available to guide you through the research process.
Visit the Law Library website:
|
Some highlights from Law Library
Persons Case Learning CommonsThis space offers both PCs and iMacs for student use, along with a small collection of dictionaries and citation guides. Featured in this area are photos of the Law graduating classes dating back to 1948, adding a sense of history to this study space. |
The Richards Buell Sutton Reading RoomThis iconic space in UBC’s Law Library features high ceilings, tall windows and warm natural light. It offers a quiet, inspiring environment for focused reading and legal research, making it a favourite study spot for law students seeking both concentration and a sense of tradition. |
Reference RoomThe Reference Room holds key reference materials and high-demand legal texts. It is located behind the Reference Desk. Enter through the gates by the Circulation Desk to reach the entrance. Most materials are for in-room use, though some are available for short-term loans by signing out at the Circulation Desk. Seating is available for study, with priority given to Law students during exam time. |
Study AreasThe UBC Law Library offers a variety of inviting study spaces, including open tables, individual carrels and quiet areas like the Reference Room. Students will find comfortable spots for study and research throughout the building. The Law Library also provides group-study rooms equipped for presentations and team projects; these spaces are reserved for current Allard School of Law students to support the demands of legal study. Overall, the Law Library offers a calm, researched-focused environment that welcomes the UBC community while ensuring Allard Law students have access to dedicated study spaces during exam periods. |
 |
Woodward Library: A Space to Learn, Create and RelaxWoodward Library is a vibrant spot on campus supporting students and faculty from Applied Science, Dentistry, Forestry, Land & Food Systems, Medicine, Science and Pharmaceutical Sciences. The library offers unique lending kits like Lego kits, textile-mending kits and Arduino kits, perfect for hands-on learning and creative projects. The Lego station invites people of all ages to build and explore, making the library a fun and interactive space. For focused study, the Woodward Memorial Room provides a quiet and comfortable environment to get work done. To help boost your mood and energy, the library also offers light therapy lamps, which are great for brightening up those darker days on campus. Whether you’re here to study, tinker or just unwind, Woodward Library has something for everyone.
Visit the Woodward Library website:
|
Some highlights from Woodward Library
Lego in the LibrarySpend some time at the Woodward Library’s Lego table to add some play and creativity to your day. The Lego table has multiple bins and build surfaces where you can create, build and take a well-deserved break! Lego kits can also be borrowed from the Woodward Library. |
Textile mending kitAt Woodward Library, you can borrow a Textile Mending Kit to repair textiles by hand. Each kit comes with essentials like darning a n d sewing needles, pins, a stitch ripper, threader, measuring tape, a darning egg or mushroom, tailor’s chalk, fabric scissors, pinking shears and an assortment of threads and fabrics – everything you need to give new life to your textiles. |
Light therapy lampsUBC Library offers light therapy lamps at Woodward and BMB Libraries to help boost your mood and energy. These lamps mimic the brightness of spring and summer sunlight, perfect for lifting your spirits on a cloudy day. Light therapy lamps are available on a first-come, first-served basis. All you need to do is sign your name and the duration of use on the sign-in sheet by the lamp. Then sit back, open your book or laptop and soak in some light while you study, read or recharge. (Also available at the Biomedical branch
Learn more about light therapy lamps:
Light therapy lamps |
Study AreasWoodward Library offers a range of study environments, including a dedicated Quiet Study Space on the lower (garden) level with comfortable seating and desks for focused, low-distraction work. The main floor features the Charles Woodward Memorial Room, another quiet space with a traditional atmosphere. For group projects, students can book study rooms located on both the second floor and the garden level. Together, these spaces make Woodward Library a flexible and dependable place to study on campus. |
 |
Xwi7xwa Library: Centering Indigenous Knowledge at UBCXwi7xwa Library is UBC’s Indigenous-focused library, offering a welcoming space that centers Indigenous knowledge, languages and cultures. The collection features Indigenous-authored materials, language-learning cards, games, Critical Indigenous Literacy Kits and even finger puppets and toys to support all forms of learning. Rooted in community and care, Xwi7xwa Library is a space to connect, learn and engage with Indigenous perspectives.
Visit the Xwi7xwa Library website:
|
Some highlights from Xwi7xwa Library
Indigenous games and language-learning cardsXwi7xwa Library has a growing selection of fun games and language-learning cards created by Indigenous communities. Stop by to explore these hands-on resources and discover everything the library has to offer! |
Indigenous Critical Literacy KitsCritical Indigenous literacy encourages readers to reflect on who is telling the story, how identity shapes it and how Indigenous voices are represented or missing. These kits offer discussion guides, book suggestions and activities to support learning and conversation in the classroom. |
Puppets and toysAs part of its connection to NITEP, the Indigenous Teacher Education Program, X̱wi7x̱wa Library maintains a strong focus on educational resources. The library’s collection includes finger puppets and toys, which can be used for storytime and classroom activities. They also provide a fun and engaging way to connect with the space during visits. |
Study AreasX̱wi7x̱wa Library offers a welcoming, culturally grounded environment with a variety of study spaces suited for individual focus and small-group work. Designed in the style of an Interior Salish pit-house, the library features open tables for 2–4 people, comfortable seating, natural light and access to reference computers to support research and writing. The calm, quiet atmosphere makes it an ideal place to read, reflect and engage with course materials, while its extensive Indigenous collections enrich learning and research. |
Available across multiple branches
UBC Library Streaming CollectionsDiscover a wide range of streaming resources available to UBC Library users, from documentaries and feature films to historical footage and theatrical productions. The audio collections span genres from jazz and classical to contemporary and spoken word. Whether you’re taking a study break with a great film or listening to musical works while you study, these collections offer inspiration, relaxation and discovery at your fingertips. Learn more about streaming collections:
Streaming collections |
Great Reads CollectionDiscover a world of leisure reading at UBC Library! The Great Reads collection features literary classics, bestselling fiction and non-fiction and more. Browse the collection in person at multiple library branches. Anyone with a UBC Library card can borrow from this collection. Find your next favourite read today! Available at:
Asian Library, David Lam Library, IKBLC (MAA Library), Koerner Library, Woodward Library
|
Soft seating areasMany UBC Library branches offer soft seating areas perfect for collaboration, relaxation or simply unwinding with a good book. Each branch has its own unique atmosphere. Explore them all and find your ideal place to read, recharge or connect. Available at:
Asian Library, David Lam Library, IKBLC Level 2, Koerner Library, Law Library, Woodward Library
|
Puzzles, origami and colouring sheetsWhen you need a moment to recharge or de-stress, many UBC Library branches offer relaxing activities like colouring sheets, origami and puzzles. These activities are perfect for enjoying on your own or with a friend. Each branch features different themes and options, so explore and find the mindful break that works best for you. Available at:
Asian Library, David Lam Library, Koerner Library, Law Library, Woodward Library, X̱wi7x̱wa Library
|
PianosNeed a creative break between classes or study sessions? UBC Library offers electric pianos at several branches, thanks to a generous donation from Yamaha and Tom Lee Music. Grab a pair of Yamaha headphones from the Circulation Desk (available for a two-hour loan), plug in and play without disturbing others. Whether you’re practising a piece or just unwinding with a few chords, it’s a great way to reset and recharge. Available at:
David Lam Library, IKBLC (Outside CLC, inside MAA Library), Koerner Library, Woodward Library
|
Active walk stationsUBC Library’s walk stations are adjustable desks paired with treadmills, which let you stay active while studying or working on assignments. Whether you’re reading, writing or catching up on emails, gentle movement helps boost focus, energy and overall well-being. Take a walk while you work and discover how a little motion can make a big difference during your study sessions. Available at:
David Lam Library, IKBLC Level 3
|
Seed Lending LibraryThe Seed Lending Library allows anyone to “borrow” seeds free of charge, and provides opportunities to learn about gardening, seed saving, and agricultural research and teaching at UBC. Available at:
Asian Library, UBCO Library, Woodward Library, X̱wi7x̱wa Library
|
Education Learning CommonsThe Education Learning Commons offers quiet study space with access to computers, printers and scanners. Students can also count on 110 study seats in the Learning Commons at Neville Scarfe, a reliable, comfortable place to focus, connect and get academic work done. |