Franklin D. Schurz Library
Vicki Bloom, M.S.L.S. | Dean
www.iusb.edu/library
About the Franklin D. Schurz Library
The Franklin D. Schurz Library serves as the information commons and intellectual center for the IU South Bend campus. As the focal point for inquiry and study, the library strives to provide a host of resources and services to meet the information and research needs of our students, faculty, and staff. The collection includes 600,000 books, scores, government publications and other print materials; 8,000 audio/video recordings; the University Archives and Special Collections. In addition, the library subscribes to over 300 databases, which provide access to thousands of full-text journal articles, e-books and streaming media titles. Nearly all of these electronic resources are accessible from student labs, apartments, offices, and home via the library website. The Schurz Library is part of the IU Libraries system, which is one of the largest university library systems in the country. IU students, staff and faculty can quickly request materials from any of the eight IU Libraries or outside the IU system using interlibrary loan.
Knowledgeable reference librarians are eager to teach you how to use the many online and print resources and find needed information. They are located at the Hammes Information Commons Desk on the first floor or by phone, chat, e-mail, and text. One-on-one research consultations and classes to improve information literacy and research skills can be scheduled as well. The Information Commons Desk is also staffed with IT consultants who can answer technology questions.
In addition to robust collections, the Schurz Library offers excellent computing and study facilities. There are 99 computers (both PCs and MACs), scanning and printing equipment, special equipment for those with disabilities, and media viewing stations. A new One Button Studio was recently opened that provides students and faculty a place to easily rehearse and record speeches or other public presentations, create videos for courses, or use green screen technology to create visual effects. A variety of study options are available, including bookable group study rooms, individual carrels, large group tables, and a designated quiet floor. The Dorene Dwyer Hammes Media Commons and Café on the first floor provides a great place for students to relax, buy a hot beverage, and watch cable TV or movies.