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210 E. Richards St.
Sherman, Texas 75090
George T. and Gladys H. Abell Library Center—Built in 1986, the library contains a collection of more than 350,000 physical titles, including books, periodicals, and media items in a variety of formats. The library’s catalog is accessible through the Austin College website and is complemented by various databases providing access to online books, journal articles, and other digital resources. In addition, librarians offer reference and research help services, supplemented by a team of student Peer Research Assistants. Other services include library instruction classes and workshops, course reserves materials, interlibrary loan, and document delivery. Quiet study is accommodated on the second floor, while the first floor provides space for groups to collaborate. Students can reserve study rooms through the library’s online scheduling system.
Also located in the library:
The Lemuel Scarbrough Center for Writing (2017) offers writing assistance and related service for students and faculty; The Archives and Special Collections Suite (2001) houses historical documents and art related to the College; The Kenneth W. Street Courtroom (2014) serves as a site for advocacy programs and mock trial competitions; a computer classroom and lab; a smart classroom; a conference room; and a 24-hour study room.
Abell Library is home to several important art pieces, including Richard Neidhardt’s Keystone Man and the James Surls sculpture From the Center, re-located to the central lobby in 2013. The piece had previously been an outdoor sculpture in the rear courtyard of Abell Library but weather deteriorated the piece, and the artist restored it for indoor display.
Other library features: