Division of Development and Alumni Relations

Support the Promise of Carolina's Libraries

The quality of a university's library is directly related to the level of support provided to meet the educational and research needs of students and faculty. The University of South Carolina's library system has a strong tradition of supporting both the instructional and research goals that have been an integral part of the University mission for nearly 200 years.

About Carolina's Libraries

The Libraries have been described as the heart of the University because they support the institution's activities to foster excellence throughout all academic programs. The Thomas Cooper Library receives up to 10,000 students a day and provides access to vital resources for today's busy college student.  The Libraries' strength and vigor feed the many divergent fields of learning and provide numerous services to people throughout the state.

In addition to the Thomas Cooper Library and the South Caroliniana Library, the Columbia campus network of libraries includes the Hollings Library (housing the Irvin Department of Rare Books and Special Collections, and the South Carolina Political Collections), Moving Image Research Collections, the Elliott White Springs Business Library and the Music Library. These libraries also work closely in many areas with the School of Medicine Library, the Coleman Karesh Law Library, and the libraries at the University’s seven senior and regional campuses.

The Libraries' collections have grown over the years through the support of many people, including alumni, University faculty and staff, and the citizens of South Carolina and the nation. Currently, the University Libraries have more than 80 funds and endowments valued at more than $10 million.

Partnerships, Friends, and Groups

• Ex Libris Society

  Is an exemplary support organization that benefits the University Libraries system. Members of the Society contribute $1,000 or more to the libraries during the calendar year. The critical support of the Ex Libris Society ensures continuing vitality for the University Libraries.

• Thomas Cooper Society

  Serves as a volunteer support organization for the University’s Thomas Cooper Library, encouraging community interest in the library and promoting a fuller understanding of its purpose, programs, and potential. Opportunities for cultural enrichment are offered through a stimulating series of lectures, exhibitions, and special events. Through its generosity, the Society fosters gifts, endowments, and memorials to the Thomas Cooper Library, enabling the library to acquire distinctive and valuable materials for students and scholars.

• University South Caroliniana Society

  Is the private, nonprofit patron organization of the South Caroliniana Library. The Society exists to meet goals of acquiring South Carolina-related research materials, promoting the preservation, appreciation, and use of these materials, and supporting collateral projects.