John M. Olin Library
The John M. Olin Library is the central library of the WashU Libraries system. It houses general-interest materials and collections in the humanities, sciences, and engineering.
You may search the Libraries’ collections in the Classic Catalog, Quick Search, or by exploring our Research Tools & Guides. Olin Library is also the location of many general services for the WashU Libraries.
Please see the Olin Library Guidelines and Policies page for information on library usage guidelines, building access for students and visitors, and more.
Please visit the Services and Borrowing & Returns pages for details about Olin Library services and Olin Library’s Help Desk, borrowing privileges, circulation policies, fines and fees, and more.
Collection Locations and Floor Plans
Find out more information on exhibition locations and where materials are housed within Olin Library’s five floors.
Data Services Spaces & Tools
Data Services and the Research Studio are located on Level A of Olin Library and support WashU’s data needs.
Accessibility
The WashU Libraries are committed to making our spaces, collections, services, and events accessible.
WashU Libraries Exhibitions
In addition to several digital exhibitions, Olin Library hosts several rotating and permanent exhibition spaces. For floor plan maps, see the Olin Library Collection Locations page.
Services
Tour Our Services
Study Rooms
Reserve Study Rooms
Research Support
Research Support
Whispers Café
Located on the ground level of the Olin Library, Whispers Café offers an expanded coffee and tea program, more grab ‘n go options, and a great place to sit and chill.
Newman Exploration Center
The Newman Exploration Center offers a vibrant and dynamic space in the John M. Olin Library. It showcases WashU’s broad and varied international activities undertaken by our students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
Olin Library Guidelines & Policies
Learn more about Olin Library building access and usage.
Olin Library Amenities & Technology
Olin Library offers many welcoming spaces, technology-related services, and audio and visual materials for our users.
Tours & Field Trips
Tours are available to school and adult groups interested in learning more about the John M. Olin Library. Availability is contingent on the capacity of staff and library spaces, which varies throughout the year.
Recent News
Self-Guided Tour of the John M. Olin Library
Check out our Self-Guided Tour for more information about the spaces and services available in the John M. Olin Library.
Plaza Scripts
Curious about the scripts displayed on the Olin Library plaza? We’ve created a PDF guide about them.
Contact Us
| Departments in Olin | Phone | |
|---|---|---|
| Administration | (314) 935-5400 | libadmin@wumail.wustl.edu |
| Data Services | (314) 935-5492 | j.moore@wustl.edu |
| Help Desk – Circulation | (314) 935-5420 | circ@wumail.wustl.edu |
| Interlibrary Loan (ILL) | (314) 935-5442 | ill@wumail.wustl.edu |
| Research & Liaison Services | (314) 935-5410 | ref@wumail.wustl.edu |
| Reserves | (314) 935-5451 | reserve@wumail.wustl.edu |
| Special Collections | (314) 935-5495 | spec@wumail.wustl.edu |
Directions to Olin Library
John M. Olin Library
MSC 1061-141-B
WashU
One Brookings Drive
St. Louis, MO 63130
Phone: (314) 935-5420
circ@wumail.wustl.edu