Welcome

Guylaine Beaudry smiling at the camera with the Roddick Gates in the background.

As Dean of Libraries, it is my great pleasure to welcome you as we embark on a new and exciting academic year. Whether you’re a returning student, a faculty member, or are new to the McGill community, I invite you to take advantage of everything that the Libraries have to offer, which is a lot!

Our wonderful team of over 165 dedicated librarians and staff members is here to assist you, whether you need help navigating complex databases, or creating a bibliography for the first time, please ask us! We’re here to support you every step of the way. And be sure to participate in workshops, events, and exhibits at our libraries as they provide the opportunity to up your academic game and overall success.

The McGill Libraries offer a variety of study spaces, from quiet reading areas to collaborative group spaces equipped with the latest technology. These spaces, like the recently-renovated renovated Schulich Library of Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Engineering, are designed to accommodate different learning styles and collaborative needs.

Our extensive collection of books, e-books, journals, databases, rare books, and other resources on multiple platforms caters to a wide range of academic disciplines. Remember, if we don't have a specific resource you need, our network loan and interlibrary loan services can help you obtain it from other libraries.

This academic year will be an eventful one for the Libraries, with several transformational infrastructure projects on the go. In June 2024, we launched our new retrieval and delivery service at the McGill University Collections Centre (MUCC) a groundbreaking, LEED certified facility nestled in Valleyfield, Quebec. MUCC staff members manage over 2 million borrowed and returned materials using state-of-the-art robotics, and an innovative, grid-like, aluminum retrieval system. 

Getting you the books you need to succeed is integral to McGill Libraries’ mission and the MUCC plays a key role in enhancing the community’s access to information. Discover everything you need to know about the new retrieval and delivery service on our website or watch a video about the facility and service.

My suggestion to new McGill students is to take advantage of all the information available to you and of the network of people around you. University life can be difficult at times but don’t give up, get organized, sleep well, and take the opportunity to discover, explore, read, and work on your studies. You’re in the process of learning what you need to go into the world and change it. The McGill Libraries are honoured to be part of your journey.

I invite you to share your thoughts with me. Is there a specific aspect of the library experience that you believe deserves special attention? Your feedback matters and will guide us in creating an exceptional environment that supports your academic journey. Please feel free to reach out to me via email at guylaine.beaudry [at] mcgill.ca (guylaine[dot]beaudry[at]mcgill[dot]ca).

Sincerely,

Dr. Guylaine Beaudry, Trenholme Dean of Libraries, McGill University Libraries