Libraries designed for learning
Westminster’s libraries are hubs of academic growth for students of all ages. Our library department empowers students to become critical thinkers, skillful researchers, ethical users and producers of information, and enthusiastic lifelong learners. From author talks to study nooks to access to thousands of fiction and non-fiction titles, our libraries enrich the intellectual life of every Wildcat.
Enhancing the Student Experience
Empowering students to acquire, evaluate, and use information
In the Lower and Middle Schools, students learn information literacy from their teachers and librarians through an intentionally designed and carefully scaffolded program. Upper School students receive direct instruction from research librarians and have access to a vast collection of college-level scholarly resources and databases. In each division, library faculty work to impart the importance of critical thinking in research.
Cultivating each student’s love of reading
Westminster’s libraries include a diverse collection of children’s books, young adult literature, periodicals, adult fiction, and nonfiction across genres—helping each student connect with literature. All-School reading events in the Lower School and thriving book clubs in the Middle and Upper Schools encourage students to discover the joy of reading. In addition to physical resources, students and faculty can access more than 100,000 digital titles for research and for pleasure.
Creating spaces to connect, collaborate, and explore
Westminster’s libraries are centers for thriving community activity. Flexible and functional library spaces in all divisions are designed to facilitate individual study and small project work groups. In addition, our libraries regularly host club meetings, guest speakers, and other special events.
Library Happenings
Middle School Research Lessons
Librarians in the Middle School’s George Woodruff Library work collaboratively with teachers to provide comprehensive research instruction. Teachers and librarians create and teach research-integrated projects together to help students master key research skills and concepts. Every student leaves the Middle School with a firm understanding of their responsibility as discerning, ethical researchers.
The Donn M. Gaebelein Christian Enrichment Collection
The Upper School’s Carlyle Fraser Library boasts a comprehensive collection of Christian research and literature. The Donn M. Gaebelein Christian Enrichment Collection enables students to explore the Christian faith past and present.
“The Christian Library at Westminster is second to none. The multitude of resources for the students and faculty make the rich academic study of the scriptures possible and allow the best possible biblical education.”
– Rev. Dr. David Charney, US Chaplain
The Lewis H. Beck Archives
The Carlyle Fraser Library houses the Lewis H. Beck Archives—a state-of-the-art archival facility and the official repository for the history of Westminster (1951 to present) and its predecessor schools, Washington Seminary (1878-1953) and North Avenue Presbyterian School (1909-1951). Utilizing professional standards to collect, describe, preserve, and make available documents and artifacts from alumni, faculty, and administrators, the Archives staff assists in the operation of the School and provides a research center for the study of the School's history and its continuing development. The Beck Archives welcomes all qualified researchers, as well as members of the Westminster community.
Libraries by the Numbers
Across our three libraries, students have access to a multitude of resources and spaces that enhance their academic journeys. It’s no wonder the Upper School Library was voted one of our students’ favorite places on campus!
6
full-time librarians
75K
print books
100+
research databases
36K
books circulated in 2024-25
1000+
hours of library instruction each year
100K+
e-books