Welcome, Incoming HDS Students!

August 16, 2016

We invite you to encounter the historical breadth, cultural diversity, and global scope of religious life and thought in Harvard's amazing library collection.

The Andover-Harvard Theological Library is one of the finest theology libraries in the country. We are also part of the largest university library in the world—the Harvard Library. With nearly 17 million volumes spread over 70 libraries and thousands of electronic resources, this library system has much to offer.

We eagerly await your arrival. Let us inspire you with many possibilities for discovery and research—your research.

In our information-rich environment, the researcher's dilemma is choosing what to read, and which conversations to enter. Our research librarians are eager to teach students how to navigate this very special library and how to discover, evaluate, and use appropriate resources for the study of religion at Harvard Divinity School. The ability to critically navigate the complex world of religious information is vital to successful scholarship.

Meet the Librarians and Your New Library: During orientation, take some time to participate in the library's "Meet the Librarians and Your Library" gatherings. Research librarians will introduce you to essential, Harvard-specific online library tools and services that can help you make the most of your HDS learning experience right from the start and save you precious time.

In addition to a quick walk-through of our study locations (such as quiet and group study space), you'll also get a chance to look and touch some treasures from the library’s rare book and archival collections. In less than an hour, you'll have an opportunity to meet librarians in a relaxed and fun way and learn how to take full advantage of the Harvard Library while a student at HDS.

Meet us in the foyer just outside the library entrance at these times:

  • Wednesday, August 24 (international students only): 11 am
  • Friday, August 26: 2 pm; 3 pm
  • Monday, August 29: 11 am; noon
  • Tuesday, August 30: noon

We look forward to seeing you!