The Harvey S. Firestone Memorial Library serves as the main library on campus and assumes primary responsibility for humanities and social sciences collections and specialized research support services. It also houses many of the libraries centralized operations, Special Collections rare books and manuscripts department, and other services including the Data and Statistical Services Lab, Cotsen Children's Library, and the Center for Digital Humanities. 

View through glass wall into group study room with students studying

Personal Space for Research Materials

Graduate Study Rooms

Graduate study rooms in Firestone are assigned by the academic departments and access is provided through your TigerCard.

Assigned Lockers

Firestone Library offers assigned lockers where students may store checked out items. Eligibility varies based on the applicant’s department and year of study, with preference given to seniors and graduate students. 

IAS and Emeritus Reading Room

The reading room for emeritus faculty and members and scholars of the Institute for Advanced Study is located on the first floor of Firestone Library. Access is by keycard only. Eligible persons should inquire at the Firestone Circulation Desk for access. 

Unique Collections at Firestone

Student sitting on coach with shelves of travel books in the background
Shelves of books

Technology

  • Printing (black and white and color; up to 11x17)
  • Scanning (regular and Bookeye)
  • DVD and VHS viewing stations
  • Microfilm and microfiche readers
  • Public PCs
  • Public Macs
  • Large, moveable monitors
  • Phone and laptop chargers

Labs, Centers, and Libraries

Marquand Art Library

Marquand Library, one of the oldest and most extensive art libraries in America, is temporarily located on the C-floor of Firestone Library as McCormick Hall is undergoing renovation for construction of the new Princeton University Art Museum.

Special Collections Firestone Library

Special Collections holdings span five millennia and five continents, ranging from cuneiform tablets to contemporary manuscripts as well as prints, drawings, photographs, maps, coins, and other visual materials.

Data and Statistical Services Lab

Data and Statistical Services (DSS) provides data and statistical consulting. Experts are available to advise on choosing appropriate data, application of quantitative research methods, the interpretation of statistical analyses, data conversion, and data visualization. 

Spaces Open to the Public

Ellen and Leonard Milberg Gallery

Located in Firestone Library’s lobby, the Ellen and Leonard Milberg Gallery provides a state-of-the-art facility where we are able to share with a wider audience PUL’s world-renowned collections while also drawing upon complementary collections from campus partners and peer institutions.

Cotsen Children's Library

Visitors can explore Bookscape, a picturesque environment with whimsical spaces to read, including a two-story bonsai tree. Like our programs, Bookscape is open to the public and free of charge. Please bring your family to relax and read! View hours.

Tiger Tea Room

Visiting Firestone Library

Firestone Library welcomes visitors and external researchers to use our collections. Learn more about the ways to get access or about the Library's accessibility.

Please note that every person who exits the library must have their bag checked by Public Safety. If you would prefer not to have your bag checked there are day lockers in the lobby where you may leave your belongings. 

Can't Visit in Person?

Take a quick peek or learn more about the library through our virtual tour.

Exterior of Firestone Library in the fall with abstract statue in front