Request a purchase for the library collection

Virtual Study Room Available
Learn more

Curbside returns available for locker keys & materials
Learn more

Ask a Librarian chat help is available M-F
10AM-5PM

Schedule an online research appointment with a subject librarian


WE ARE CURRENTLY OPEN

Please see the hours section below.

Monday–Thursday 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Friday 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Saturday 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Sunday 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM

Please make an appointment to use a study space, to visit Special Collections, and for Curbside Pick-Up.


Places to Study

Choose one or more to find the right space for you:




Virtual Study Room

Virtual Study Space

With AOK Library's Virtual Study Room (VSR), you can work alongside your fellow Retrievers for a focused study environment.

The VSR is a Discord server that is available 24/7. Join here: https://discord.com/invite/kSuUSpG7bA.
Find more information about getting started on Discord.
For more information, including hours when student support is available: https://lib.guides.umbc.edu/virtualstudyroom

Virtual Study Space, Conversation Allowed, Group Study, Reservable

Table and whiteboard in a Study Room

Group Study Rooms

These 16 rooms are available to any UMBC faculty, students, or staff. You can reserve one ahead up to five days in advance. Reservations are limited to 3 hours per person or group each day. Book yours today!

Group Study, Conversation Allowed, Whiteboards, Computers, Reservable

Table with seating for one in a Study Room

Individual Study Rooms

These 6 rooms are available to any UMBC faculty, students, or staff. You can reserve one ahead up to five days in advance. Reservations are limited to 3 hours per person each day. Book yours today!

Individual Study, Conversation Allowed, Quiet, Reservable

Booth, computer, and whiteboard in the Retriever Learning Center RLC

Retriever Learning Center (RLC)

The RLC is UMBC's best place for lively group study, scholarly discussion, collaboration, and academic coaching. This room features comfortable, mobile furniture so that students can design their own study spaces. Movable white boards and large monitors allow for collaboration.

Group Study, Conversation Allowed, Whiteboards, 24-hour, Computers, Individual Study

Large conference table in the Retriever Learning Center Seminar Room

Richard Roberts Seminar Room (140)

This room in the RLC is available to UMBC students, faculty, and staff. It contains a small conference table, large-screen monitor, and a projector with cables to connect to your laptop. Reserve the seminar room for your group for periods up to 2 hours.

Group Study, Conversation Allowed, Reservable, 24-hour, Whiteboards, Presentation Space

Door of Lactation Room

Lactation Room (755)

The Library is pleased to offer a Lactation Room for its users who need a private space to express breast milk. The room includes a table, two chairs, an outlet and power strip, and sanitizing wipes. It is located close to the restrooms on the 7th floor. It may be reserved for up to one hour, up to 5 days in advance. A key is also available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Check Out Desk on the Library's first floor. Reserve the Lactation Room for periods up to 1 hour.

Reservable, Quiet, Individual Study, Specialty

Open study room doors

Open Study Rooms

These 12 rooms are left open for students to use on a first-come, first-served basis. Each room has four seats. Room numbers are listed here.

Individual Study, Conversation Allowed

Podium and screen in the Presentation Practice Room

Presentation Practice Room (257)

This room has been set up for students to practice giving presentations, speeches, etc. Bring your flash drive to plug into our one-button recording system - when you're finished, you'll have a recording of your presentation to critique. Reserve the Presentation Practice Room. Reservations are not required but do take precedence over walk-up appointments. You can check out the key at the Check Out desk.

Presentation Space, Conversation Allowed, Group Study, Individual Study, Reservable

Digital Media Lab Mac and scanner

Digital Media Lab (DML)

The Digital Media Lab is open to all UMBC students, faculty, and staff and contains a Whisper Room, an Audio/Video Recording Room, and computer workspaces with editing software. Book time in the Whisper Room or Audio/Video Recording Room here. For information on hours and available equipment, please visit the DML homepage.

Creation Space, Computers, Reservable, Group Study, Individual Study, Conversation Allowed

Rows of chairs and screen in the Screening Room

Screening Room (258)

Our Screening Room is designed for groups to view films. It features a Blu-ray/DVD player, Windows computer, HD Plasma TV, and VHS player. A minimum of 3 people is required to use the room. Reserve the Screening Room. Reservations are not required but do take precedence over walk-up appointments. You can check out the key at the Check Out desk.

Reservable, Conversation Allowed, Presentation Space

Doors and windows of faculty study rooms

Faculty Study Rooms

These 32 rooms are available to UMBC faculty, as well as visiting and Emeritus faculty. They are assigned each semester; to apply for a room, please fill out an application form.

Individual Study, Quiet, Reservable

Workstation in an Assistive Technology Room

Assistive Technology Rooms

Ask at the Check Out desk to access Room 455. It is equipped with Jaws screenreader software, magnifiers, and scanners. Learn more about assistive technology facilities.

Individual Study, Computers

Stairwell from first to second floor

Floors 1, 2, and 7

The first, second, and seventh floors of the AOK Library have 160 computers (both Macs and PCs) for student use, as well as printers, scanners, and photocopiers.

Individual Study, Group Study, Computers, Conversation Allowed

Study tables

Floors 3 and 4

The third and fourth floors of the AOK Library are designated Quiet areas, so please keep volume to a whisper. These floors have 22 (PCs) for student use.

Quiet, Individual Study, Computers

Quiet sign and book stacks on Floor 5

Floors 5 and 6

The fifth and sixth floors of the AOK Library are designated Absolute Quiet areas at all times. These floors have 32 computers (PCs) for student use.

Individual Study, Absolute Quiet, Computers

Group table and large monitor in the 2nd Floor Study Area

2nd Floor Study Area

Head up to the 2nd floor and take a left at the Serials sign - there you'll find a group study space featuring whiteboards, big tables, and large monitors with cables to connect to your laptop.

Group Study, Whiteboards, Conversation Allowed

Chair near the windows in the Library Atrium

Atrium

The entry hall of the library is a vibrant social and conversation space. It is open 24 hours a day.

Individual Study, Group Study, 24-hour, Conversation Allowed

Lockers

Daily Lockers

Daily lockers are available to UMBC students, faculty, and staff for a 24 hour period. Daily locker keys are checked out at the Check Out Desk. For more information, please visit the Locker page.

Lockers

Semester Lockers

Semester lockers are a great place for UMBC students, faculty, and staff to store their study materials. They are assigned each Fall and Spring semester; to apply for a locker, please fill out an application form. For more information, please visit the Locker page.

Reservable

Table and screen in the Collaboration Room

Collaboration Room (368)

This room is available to UMBC students, faculty, and staff. It contains a small conference table and a smart TV with Chromecast, which allows a laptop, tablet or smartphone to stream content to the screen. Reserve this room for your group of 3-7 people for periods up to 3 hours. You can find instructions for how to use Chromecast here (Note: the Chromecast device is already connected to the room screen).

Presentation Space, Conversation Allowed, Group Study, Reservable

No results found

Back to top

Printing in the Library

Where can I print?

  • You can print from any of our computers.
  • You can print from any laptop or mobile device using Pharos MobilePrint.
  • You must release and pick up the print job on the 1st, 2nd, or 7th floor, or in the RLC.

How much does it cost?

  • Black and white: $0.10 per side
  • Color: $0.70 per side

How do I pay?

  • UMBC Campus ID card
    Add more money online using a credit card or add cash at the Campus Information Center (Commons) or Student Business Services (Admin).


Equipment Loan

Did you know that the Library loans laptops and a variety of audio and video equipment? Laptops are available at the Check Out Desk. For everything else, head up to the Digital Media Lab (DML) on the 2nd floor - all equipment is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Full descriptions of the available equipment and instruction manuals are available on the DML homepage. Please take a moment to read the Equipment Loan Policies and Laptop Loan Policies pages for detailed information about the program.


At the Check Out Desk:

Picture of Dell Laptop Dell LATITUDE E6440
Laptop (7 Days)
Available at Check Out Desk;
Click here to see availability.
Picture of MacBook Pro MacBook Pro 13"
Laptop (7 Days)
Available at Check Out Desk;
Click here to see availability.
Picture of HP Chromebook HP Chromebook
(7 Days)
Available at Check Out Desk;
Click here to see availability.
Picture of HP Chromebook HP Chromebook II
(4 Hours)
Available at Check Out Desk;
Click here to see availability.


In the Digital Media Lab:

The Digital Media Lab has a variety of A/V equipment for use and checkout. Click here to see what's available.



Back to top

Upcoming Events

 Other events scheduled in the Library can be found on the full Events page.

  • Creating an Academic Research Poster Using Canva

    Date: Monday March 27th at 12:00pm

    Summary: An academic research poster is a visual communication tool that allows you to present your research in a clear, concise, graphic format using  a free graphic-design tool to create an academic...


  • Creating an Academic Research Poster Using PowerPoint

    Date: Monday April 3rd at 12:00pm

    Summary: An academic research poster is a visual communication tool that allows you to present your research in a clear, concise, graphic format. Learn how to create a poster that stands out. In this...


  • How to Cite Sources for your Research & Writing

    Date: Wednesday April 5th at 4:00pm

    Summary: This workshop is geared toward first-year and transfer students. Do you have questions about how to cite and incorporate sources in your writing assignments? Avoid accidental plagiarism by...


  • How to Conduct a Preliminary U.S. Patent Search

    Date: Monday April 10th at 12:00pm

    Summary: Patent searching can be a daunting and overwhelming process. Come learn how to conduct preliminary patent searches of U.S. patents and published applications using free online resources of the USPTO.


  • Spotlight! Guest Instructor Series: Laura Torres Vargas

    Date: Friday April 14th at 12:00pm

    Summary: Gender Structured Representations of Migrant Venezuelan Women in Colombian and Venezuelan Newspapers During 2015-2020   Ms. Laura Torres Vargas' research focuses are migration, violence, gender...


  • Research & Publication Workshop: CAHSS Faculty Perspective

    Date: Wednesday April 19th at 12:00pm

    Summary: To register and join the workshop visit the PROMISE event post: https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/promise/events/114427 Publishing your work is considered one of the primary pillars of a research...


  • Finding Your Flow: Navigating Final Papers

    Date: Wednesday May 3rd at 4:00pm

    Summary: Ready to write your final paper but not sure where to start? Gather what you’ve got so far (even if it’s just the assignment description), and join us for this workshop where we will offer plenty...



Library News

  • Associate Director, Library Technology & Digital Strategies
    Job no: 494057
    Work type: Faculty- Librarian
    Location: UMBC Campus

    The Albin O. Kuhn Library & Gallery promotes intellectual growth and creativity by developing high quality collections, facilitating access to information resources, and furthering innovative teaching and learning. In support of the University's mission, our Library is dedicated to diversity, social responsibility, and lifelong learning.

    For more information visit: https://library.umbc.edu/

    Responsibilities: The Associate Director and Head of Library Technology & Digital Strategies will envision a new library technology and digital strategies model for the UMBC faculty, staff, and students.  As a member of the Library Executive Team, the Associate Director and Head of Library Technology & Digital Strategies is expected to have knowledge of trends in research and learning in the academic library setting.  The Associate Director and Head of Library Technology & Digital Strategies collaborates with university colleagues to determine how the library can best support emerging research initiatives.  The position does not include budgetary responsibility. While working with the UMBC Division of Information Technology (DoIT), the Associate Director advises library leadership on current, new and emerging library applications and knowledge systems that will advance the library’s vision, mission and strategic plan (https://library.umbc.edu/admin/StrategicPlan2018.pdf).

    The Associate Director and Head of Library Technology & Digital Strategies is expected to be strategic and innovative to move the Albin O. Kuhn Library and its technology and digital strategies forward in a rapidly changing environment of research and education. Specific duties include:

    • Leads the library’s investigation and implementation of emerging technology to better serve the library’s clientele.

    • Develops a technology plan that builds on the University and Library strategic plans to address new opportunities and pursue possibilities of adapting and applying technology solutions.

    • Develops a plan for scheduled updating of hardware and software.

    • In collaboration with the Director and Associate Directors, participates in library planning; serves on library-wide, university and university system committees and task forces including the Library Executive Council.

    • Represents the UMBC Library on appropriate state, regional and national committees.

    • Represents the UMBC Library in the adoption and technical integration of new University System of Maryland and Affiliated Institutions (USMAI) technology projects.

    • Works in partnership with the campus DoIT for discovery, planning and implementation of new technology and insures that library systems and computing are robust and operational.

    • Keeps current with trends and issues in the IT industry, including current technologies and costs.

    • Provides leadership in coordinating and defining technology requirements for library-wide projects and initiatives.

    • Oversees Library Information Technology Services composed of library faculty and staff and student employees and works with other areas of the library and university that are affiliated with technology.

    • Manage a full time staff of five and student workers.

    Required Minimum Qualifications: 
    • ALA accredited MLS/MLIS or equivalent advanced degree.

    • Minimum 3 years of progressively responsible professional experience in IT-related project management in an academic library setting.

    • Demonstrated experience and scholarship to be eligible for appointment at the rank of Librarian II and to meet the university requirements for reappointment, promotion, and permanent status as outlined in part 6.6 of the Faculty Handbook https://provost.umbc.edu/faculty-handbook

    • Experience with library technologies and technology planning and demonstrated knowledge of current technology trends.

    • Demonstrated experience in implementing new technologies or services, e.g. virtual servers, immersive technologies, and maker spaces.

    • Strong analytical and decision making skills.

    • Minimum 3 years of experience managing and developing staff.

    • Proven leadership and management skills.

    • Proven experience working in a collaborative team environment.

    • Ability to work collaboratively across the University to advance the technology needs of the library and library users.

    • Excellent interpersonal skills including ability to communicate clearly, knowledgeably and personably both verbally and in writing.

    Preferred Qualifications:  
    • Knowledge and understanding of significant trends and issues in the application of information technology to libraries and higher education, including research support and information management services and solutions.

    • Experience working with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems, client side computing and cloud technology.

    • Experience developing IT policies for workflows and software support.

    • Experience working with assistive technology for accommodation and accessibility.

    • Demonstrated record of participation in relevant professional associations and ongoing professional development.

    • Experience working with a larger campus information and computing group.

    • Experience working in a consortia of libraries.

    Special Instructions to Applicants:
    Application materials must include a CV/resume; a cover letter which addresses your 5 year vision of the University Library of the Future; statement on diversity and inclusion; three references including names, addresses and phone numbers.

    Questions: For questions about submitting application materials, contact Teresa Reese at reeset@umbc.edu

    For questions about the position, contact Lynda Aldana at laldana@umbc.edu

    Screening of Applications Begins: 

    Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but full consideration will be given to complete applications received by March 1, 2023.  

    Salary & Benefits: This position is a full time (40 hours/week), 12-month library faculty appointment at anticipated rank of Librarian II. Salary commensurate with experience—minimum salary $85,000. Comprehensive benefits.

    The successful candidate will be expected to meet library and university requirements for reappointment, promotion, and permanent status, as outlined in part 6.6 of the Faculty Handbook - http://provost.umbc.edu/faculty-handbook/.

    Hours: Full-time

    About UMBC: UMBC, an honors university serving more than 11,000 undergraduates and 2,000 graduate students, is one of two public universities in Maryland to achieve the “doctoral/research university-extensive” Carnegie classification. Located just outside Baltimore and 45 minutes from Washington, DC, the campus is growing rapidly under dynamic leadership.

    Our UMBC community redefines excellence in higher education through an inclusive culture that connects innovative teaching and learning, research across disciplines, and civic engagement. We will advance knowledge, economic prosperity, and social justice by welcoming and inspiring inquisitive minds from all backgrounds. The successful candidate will join a department with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusive excellence, and will be expected to contribute actively to these efforts (https://diversity.umbc.edu/).

    To read the complete job listing and to apply, please view this position on the UMBC jobs site.

    Read more…


  • Visit the Digital Media Lab
    We've got DSLR cameras, camcorders, microphones, tripods, a green screen, and more! Bring your UMBC card to the 2nd floor* of the library and borrow equipment for seven days for FREE.

    *Located in room 216H next to Honors College

    Find info about our policies, equipment availability, and recording spaces at tinyurl.com/aok-dml.

    Here's a complete list of equipment you could take home:

    Photo/Video
    • Canon Rebel T3i DSLR Cameras
    • Canon Rebel T5i DSLR Camera
    • Canon Rebel T7i DSLR Cameras
    • Canon Rebel T7 DSLR Cameras
    • Nikon D3000 DSLR Cameras
    • Canon VIXIA R800 Camcorders
    • GoPro HERO4 Silver Cameras

    Mounts
    • Manfrotto MKC3-H01 Tripods
    • Joby Phone Mounts
    • Vello ActionPan Stabilizing Grips
    • Joby GorillaPods
    • Revo SR-1000 Shoulder Mounts

    Audio
    • Zoom H4n Recorders
    • Sony ECM-44B Lavalier Microphones
    • Movo PM10 Lavalier Microphones
    • Rode VideoMic GO Shotgun Microphones
    • Tascam DR-10L Recorders with Lavalier Microphone

    Accessories
    • Bescor LED144 Studio Light Kit
    • Additional 32GB SD Cards

    Other
    • Aaxa P300 Mini Projectors
    • Portable USB Conference Microphones
    • Transcription Foot Pedals
    • Portable DVD Player/Writers
    • Digital Voice Recorders

    Coming soon: T8i cameras, new lights, and new microphones

    Read more…


  • Winter Session Laptop Information
    During the winter session 2023, our laptops will be re-imaged and updated for the spring 2023 semester. All laptops currently checked out will be due on Thursday, December 22.

    1. Chromebooks and Dells will be available when we return from winter break on January 3, 2023. We expect the Macbooks to be available again in mid-January. 
    2. The Dells will be unavailable for checkout the last few weeks of January to be sent for their updates.
    3. All laptops will be available to check out on the first day of the spring semester, January 30, 2023.

    Read more…


  • Final Spotlight! presentation of the semester - 12/2 at noon
    The Library's Spotlight! Guest Instructor Symposium, "Prison State," is wrapping up!  Please join us on for our final speaker:

    Nathaniel R. Balis, Director of Juvenile Justice Strategy Group at The Annie E. Casey Foundation, "A New Normal or Old Status Quo: Youth Justice in a Post-Pandemic World." 
    Friday, December 2nd at 12:00pm 

    If you weren't able to attend the other excellent presentations, please listen to their recordings linked below:


    We hope to see you in the Library Gallery or virtually (click to join) for Nathaniel R. Balis's presentation on Friday 12/2/2022 at noon!

    More information here.


    Thank you to all of our speakers and to our co-sponsors: Albin O. Kuhn Library & Gallery; Graduate School; Dresher Center for the Humanities; Center for Social Sciences Scholarship; and the following academic departments:  American Studies; History; Gender, Women's + Sexuality Studies; Sociology, Anthropology, and Public Health; Social Work; Political Science; Language, Literacy, & Culture; and Media & Communications Studies

    Read more…


  • Library CLOSED on November 5
    The Albin O. Kuhn Library building will be closed on Saturday, November 5 due to a planned electrical outage. We will reopen on Sunday, November 6 at 12 PM.

    Virtual resources are available 24/7 at library.umbc.edu.

    Read more…