About the Libraries

The J.D. Williams Library serves as the heart of campus, offering resources, services, and spaces that inspire learning, research, and discovery.

an old photo of J.D. Williams Library is held up in front of J.D. Williams Library today

University Libraries

The University of Mississippi Libraries includes the John Davis Williams Library (191,261 sq ft), the Science Library (10,890 sq ft), and an Annex building (15,200 sq ft). The Williams and Science Libraries are open to the public, while the Annex is closed for material retrieval.
Library Starbucks
Close up of the J.D. WIlliams Library engraving on the building

J.D. Williams Library

The Williams Library serves as the general library, housing books, periodicals, microforms, manuscripts, government publications, audiovisual materials, and maps. A Starbucks coffee shop and soft seating areas enhance the library experience. Public computers and free wireless access are available in both the Williams and Science Libraries. The Libraries are open 80.5 hours per week during regular semesters and offer in-person, email, chat, and virtual reference services.

Thad Cochran Research Center

The Science Library

Located in the Thad Cochran National Center for Natural Products Research, the Science Library serves students and faculty in Pharmacy, Chemistry, and Biochemistry. It holds over 65,000 volumes, three group study rooms, and seven computers. Staff provide research support, interlibrary loan, and general assistance.

The Science Library
Three students study together in lounge chairs

Study, Event, & Meeting Spaces

The University Libraries offer a variety of spaces to support study, instruction, events, and meetings. From group study rooms and individual carrels to classrooms and event venues, these spaces are designed to meet the diverse needs of the University community. Usage guidelines and reservation details vary by space.

Spaces

Unique Collections at the Libraries

Access a rich array of unique collections and specialized research resources at the University Libraries, designed to support scholarly exploration and discovery across all disciplines. From rare archives and historical documents to digital materials and specialized archives, these resources provide valuable tools for students, faculty, and researchers alike.
  • Gifts & Donations

    At the heart of every great university is an outstanding library. It is the reservoir of knowledge essential to the basic educational experience. Your gift to the University of Mississippi Libraries will make a difference at Ole Miss for generations to come.

    Give to the Libraries

Exhibits

Exhibits reflect the mission of UM Libraries to inspire intellectual discovery, research, creativity, and lifelong learning. Collaborations with the larger university campus and local community are welcome.

Visitor Information

Find key details for visiting the University of Mississippi Libraries, including contact information, directions, and how to schedule a tour.

Physical Address

J. D. Williams Library

1 Library Loop

University of Mississippi

University, MS 38677

Mailing Address

University of Mississippi Libraries

University of Mississippi

P.O. Box 1848

University, MS 38677

Phone & Fax

Phone: (662) 915-5858

Fax: (662) 915-5734

Oxford Mississippi is located about eighty miles south of Memphis, Tennessee, on Highway 6 between Batesville and Tupelo. The closest airports providing commercial jet service are the Memphis International Airport and the Tupelo Regional Airport.

The Oxford University Airport provides limited small aircraft service as well as private service. Amtrak provides service to Memphis via the “City of New Orleans” route.

There are two Libraries. The J.D. Williams Library houses the main collection, Archives and Special Collections, and the AICPA Library. The Science Library is located within the Thad Cochran Research Center.

University Visitor Information

Look for announcements about “Library Tour Week” offered during the fall semester. Typical library tours last about 20 minutes and start at the East Circulation Desk near Starbucks in the J.D. Williams Library. Personalized library tours can also be arranged in advance.

To request a tour, please email Melissa Dennis at mdennis@olemiss.edu.