Welcome to Widener Library, Harvard’s Flagship Library
Widener Library, one of dozens of Harvard Library locations across campus and beyond, offers inspiring study spaces, miles of stacks to explore, and friendly librarians ready to help. Built with a gift from Eleanor Elkins Widener, the library is a memorial to her son, Harry, Class of 1907.
Study Spaces at Widener
From silent, light-filled study spaces to individual desks hidden throughout the stacks, Widener Library has spaces to suit any study need.
Loker Reading Room
The renowned silent study space in Widener Library, perfect for those who want to study in complete silence or take a nap.
Atkins Reference Room
Public computers and a reference librarian who's present daily to assist with reference questions, developing research strategies and more.
Phillips Reading Room
A quiet, light-filled open space with desks that seat four people and comfortable seating for taking a break.
Study Carrels
These reservable individual desks are hidden throughout the stacks and include space to hold materials.
Research Services & Support at Harvard Library
Harvard Library offers services, tools and support for every stage of the research journey. Whether you’re just getting started or are experienced in your field, we can help you make the most of what the library has to offer.
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Researchers can apply to borrow circulating materials or access our physical spaces.
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Harvard Library’s special collections and archives are open to all researchers.
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Access a growing number of electronic resources available to alumni.
Collection Highlights
Widener Library holds millions of volumes in over 100 languages, with strengths in humanities and social sciences, plus rare books and specialized research collections.
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Physical & DigitalThe Gutenberg Bible
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Public AccessData and Government Information Collections
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Digital ExhibitImmigration to the United States, 1789-1930
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Digital ExhibitLatin American Pamphlets
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CollectionJudaica Collection
Explore Widener Library
The Harry Elkins Widener Memorial Library is Harvard University’s flagship library. Built with a gift from Eleanor Elkins Widener, the library is a memorial to her son, Harry, Class of 1907. Harry was an enthusiastic young bibliophile who died aboard the Titanic.
Take a Virtual Tour of Widener Library
Gaze up at the skylights of the Loker Reading Room, wander through the stacks, examine the bookshelves holding Harry Widener’s personal collection.
The History and Architecture of Widener Library
Explore how the construction of Widener Library transformed Harvard’s campus physically and intellectually in this online exhibit.
The Harry Elkins Widener Memorial Collection
Collected prior to his death, this collection consists of approximately 3,300 volumes housed in the Memorial Rooms of Widener Library.