The most extensive theological library from Philadelphia to Chicago, Barbour Library gives users access to several hundred thousand books and microforms and many online databases, as well as a rare books room housing a priceless collection of classical theological works from the Reformation period, including books by John Calvin published during his lifetime, and a several-thousand-piece hymnology collection.
Barbour Library extends reciprocal privileges to borrowers from a number of partner institutions and lends its volumes generously through interlibrary loan. The Library houses several public access computers and offers free public wireless access throughout the building. Printers, copiers, and microfilm/microfiche readers are also available for public use, and staff offer help with thesis-binding requests.
Dedicated in 1964, The Clifford E. Barbour Library is named after the former Seminary president who oversaw the consolidation of Western and Pittsburgh-Xenia seminaries to form Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. Among the Library’s extensive holdings are The Warrington Collection of hymnology volumes, The Newburgh Collection of mostly 17th- and 18th-century theological works, and The Grier Collection of incunabula, early 16th-century imprints, first editions of many literary giants, and more. Artifactual treasures in Barbour Library include the desk, chair, and memorabilia of 20th-century Reformed theologian Karl Barth.
Barbour Library offers online topical research guides to streamline navigating the Library’s collection and to facilitate paper- and thesis-writing. Online resources also include tutorials for exam/ordination-exam preparation, as well as writing and citation helps. Webpage answers to many frequently-asked questions add to the many resources available to on-site and online Barbour Library users.
Black history Month On the second floor, find our Black History Month display with books, music, and movies to commemorate this important month. Learn about Pittsburgh playwright August Wilson, how music inspired the Civil Rights Movement, the history of African-Americans in Pittsburgh, and read celebratory children's books!
Our first floor display, Devotional/Inspirational Literature, includes titles that provide daily meditations; scripture readings; and memoirs, reflections, or other inspiration from writers, theologians, and practitioners such as Simone Weil, C. S. Lewis, and Mother Theresa.
Our Armchair Theologians series display (second floor), offers titles that are "written by experts but designed for the novice," tackling topics such as Liberation Theology, Heretics, and the life of John Wesley.
Don't you forget about me
Visit the ground floor to sample the Don't You Forget About Me (books from the bottom shelf) display!
On the second floor, our Embodied Faith display compliments our February 24 BookTalk with Rev. Christine Kukuk, '05 and includes titles on the theology of flesh and spirit.
*All items are available for checkout!