Ryerson University - Library

Library

The Ryerson Library collection consists of over 500,000 books, 3,700 print journal titles and over $2 million of electronic resources, including approximately 23,000 e-journals, approximately over 90,000 e-books, databases and indexes, geospatial data, and catalogued websites or electronic documents. Most of the electronic resources can be accessed remotely by Ryerson community members with internet access, although authentication of Ryerson Library registration is required for access to all commercial resources. The library acquires materials to support the curriculum taught at the university and to support the research needs of faculty. All hard copy materials are housed in the library building at Gould and Victoria Streets.

The 11-storey tower was built in 1974, and is a classic example of Brutalist architecture. The library buildings also holds administrative office, the Nursing Collaborative and until 2007 the urban and regional planning program. Urban and regional planning vacated the building in 2007, leaving more space for the existing library.

As part of the Ryerson University Master Plan, the library is expected to either relocate or be the subject of extensive renovations in the next several years. On January 18, 2008 the university announced the acquisition of properties including the former site of Sam the Record Man which will allow expansion of the library to a prime Yonge Street location. To improve study space, the entire fourth floor of the library underwent construction during the 2008 academic year. The renovation included the addition of lounges, a graduate reading room, and LCD panels.