University College Library
The UC Library is a welcoming study space with lots of natural light and browsable shelves full of academic books, bestsellers, graphic novels and literature, which you can find in the U of T Library Catalogue. It's also the home of the UC Writing Centre.
Temporary library closure due to COVID-19
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the University College Library will be closed from Sunday March 15 until the end of the semester. Library closures are among the steps taken by the university to support public health measures designed to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Please see the U of T Libraries web site for information about the current situation re: libraries at U of T, including remote research help and support for teaching. There is no need to return your books at this time. All loans from U of T Libraries will be extended and no late fines charged.
Many of our academic books support the UC-affiliated programs: Canadian Studies; Cognitive Science; Drama, Theatre & Performance Studies; Health Studies; Sexual Diversity Studies; and UC One: Engaging Toronto.
How can we help you?
Browse Our Books
Bestsellers
Need a study break? Check out our popular Bestsellers section (fiction and non-fiction paperbacks).
Award-Winning Books
Interested in award-winning fiction, non-fiction, plays, or poetry? We have hundreds of award-winning books for over twenty literary prizes -- both Canadian prizes (Giller, Governor General's, etc.) and international ones (Booker, Pulitzer, etc.).
Graphic Novels
Like graphic novels? We have lots -- plus some interesting books about graphic novels.
Browse our Graphic Novels section in the U of T Library Catalogue.
Writing, Academic Skills & Careers
A browsable section of books on how to write; academic skills like research and studying; and careers. You can borrow almost all of these books.
Browse our books about writing, academic skills and careers in the U of T Library Catalogue.
Staff Picks
Looking for an interesting read? Why not try a book recommended by one of our UC library assistants?
Books by UC Authors
There are hundreds of authors among University College alumni and faculty.
Purdy Collection
About 3,000 Canadian literature books which once belonged to the Canadian poet, Al Purdy (for use within the UC Library).
Browse the Purdy Collection in the U of T Library Catalogue.
About UC History
- UC history in pictures (images from the 1850s to the 1980s)
- UC history in quotes (memories of life at UC)
- Books about UC history
Our study space offers:
- large windows
- four-person tables
- individual study carrels
- 20 PC computers
- wifi
- 36 power outlets
- printer (15 cents/page)
- scanner (free)
- photocopier (10 cents/page)
Accessibility
- Due to the UC Revitalization Project Construction, there will be no wheelchair-accessible entrance to University College until further notice.
- If this affects your ability to borrow books from the University College Library, you may wish to contact Services to Students with Disabilities, University of Toronto Libraries (access.services@utoronto.ca or 416-978-1957),to to request that the book(s) you need to have retrieved from the UC Library and left for you at the Robarts Library Loan Services Desk (but please note that this can take some time). Also feel free to contact the University College Librarian with any questions or concerns: 416-978-4634.
- Since the UC Quad is a high-traffic construction zone during this phase of the project, the rear laneway has been blocked and entry must be restricted as a safety precaution. We will continue to evaluate the situation and we hope to be able re-open our barrier-free entrance as soon as possible. Should you need to attend a meeting or event in the building, please contact marley.rosen@utoronto.ca, in advance, to arrange for an escort through the construction zone. We apologize for this temporary setback to improved accessibility at UC. Creating barrier-free spaces remains a central part of the Revitalization mandate, and we will continue to move forward with eyes on that important goal.For information on all construction-related closures and a list of available entrances, please visit: https://www.uc.utoronto.ca/uc-under-construction