- Research
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Research
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.
- Services
- Borrowing and Patron Information
- Interlibrary Loan
- Room Reservations
- Events in the Library
- Doctor of Ministry Students
- Alumnae/i
Services
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.
- About
- History and Collections
- Library Mission and Core Values
- Library Policies
- Giving to the Library
- Library Photos and Videos
- Staff Directory
About
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.
- Help
Help
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.
Library News
Spring Term Hours
- Mondays-Thursdays: 8:30 a.m.-10:00 p.m.
- Fridays: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
- Saturdays: 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
- Sundays: Closed
Regular Information/Reference Desk hours and Reference chat hours can be found on the Research Assistance page.
Finals Week Hours:
- Monday, May 18-Thursday, May 21: 8:30 a.m.-11:00 p.m.
- Friday, May 22: 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
- Saturday, May 23-Monday, May 25: Library Closed
The library will be closed:
- Saturday, May 23-Monday, May 25
- Saturday, May 30
- Friday, June 19
- Friday, July 3
- Monday, September 7
Visit https://www.pts.edu/barbour-library/Library-Hours for special hours and more information.
The 24/7 space is available to current students, faculty, and staff.
Summer Hours:
May 26-May 31:
- Tuesday-Friday: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
- Saturday-Sunday: Closed
June 1-June 6:
- Monday-Thursday: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
- Friday: 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
- Saturday: Closed
June 7-June 27:
- Mondays: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
- Tuesdays-Thursdays: 8:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
- Fridays: 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
- Saturdays-Sundays: Closed
*Reference help will be available Wednesdays from 4:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
June 28-August 30:
- Mondays-Thursdays: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
- Fridays: 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. (8/28 open until 4:30 p.m.)
- Saturdays-Sundays: Closed
Classes and fall term hours begin Monday, August 31.