Empowering learning and research at the University of Waterloo, the Libraries are a central hub that provides access to information, tools and expertise vital to the success of students and researchers.
The Libraries advance the creation, discovery, sharing and use of knowledge through research, teaching, collection development and community collaborations. Through an ecosystem of world-class information experts and resources, the Libraries ensure access to high-quality resources that strengthen the teaching and learning mission of the University.
Your support helps the Libraries enhance the student experience, building life-long information navigation skills and offering inclusive, welcoming space for everyone.
Library Spaces Fund
As a central hub for students, the Libraries support their learning, as well as physical and mental wellbeing. This fund supports updates to vital amenities that are crucial to student success, including furniture, technology and flexible space for collaboration.
You can help
Students continually identify space as a key need. Your gift allows us to provide comfortable and functional furniture, and ensure students have the space they need to be successful.
Current priorities
A late-night access space within one of our anchor library locations to provide a secure, safe study space for current Waterloo students and employees after closing hours.
University of Waterloo Library fund
The Libraries empower the changemakers at Waterloo who are using their curiosity, courage and persistence to solve complex, global problems. This fund allows the Libraries to take advantage of emerging opportunities, including the development of resources to support life-long information navigation skills, experiential learning opportunities for students, and the creation of inclusive and accessible programming.
You can help
Your gift supports the areas of highest impact for our users. Gifts go directly toward space and programming that meets the evolving needs of students and researchers.
Current priorities
Expansion of our adaptive technology space and supports for student wellbeing and accessibility; increasing access by creating after hours space at Dana Porter Library.
Special Collections & Archives fund
Special Collections & Archives (SCA) is home to rare and unique materials found only at Waterloo. These primary resources help scholars examine the past as they seek to shape policy, support education and create practical solutions to our most pressing global challenges.
SCA is dedicated to curating distinctive collections tailored to Waterloo’s teaching and learning needs. Preserving these materials, and making them accessible through resources like the Waterloo Digital Library and the Archives Database, requires specialized expertise, technical infrastructure and supplies.
You can help
Your gift is critical for the acquisition, preservation and digitization of rare books, historical records and literary archives that enrich learning and research at Waterloo.
Current priorities
SCA marks its 50th anniversary in 2026. Help us welcome 50 new donors to celebrate this milestone and strengthen our work to acquire, preserve and digitize irreplaceable primary source materials.
Collections, preservation & resources fund
The Libraries curate collections that preserve and incorporate diverse voices and meet the changing needs of scholars. Our focus on electronic resources ensures the Waterloo community has timely access to essential, high-quality information across disciplines.
You can help
As programs and research areas evolve, your gift allows the Libraries to intentionally curate collections that grow with the University, ensuring access to relevant resources that support the teaching and learning mission.
Current priorities
Curating collections that reflect the diversity of our campus community and align with Waterloo’s curriculum and research priorities, including Indigenous resources and anti-racism titles that help strengthen inclusivity and representation.
Recognizing your gifts
Your gift to the Libraries supports all students and the dynamic research that drives discovery across campus. We offer numerous giving options, along with recognition opportunities such as named spaces and collections.
To explore how you can make an impact, contact:
Meghan Whitfield
Director, External Relations
University of Waterloo Libraries
mwhitfield@uwaterloo.ca