Cowles Library is the largest private academic library in Iowa. Our purpose is to support the educational goals of Drake University by providing services, collections, technology, and learning opportunities that make it possible for faculty and students to successfully access and use information.
We are also a selective Federal Depository Library for government documents, and we are open to the general public during regular building hours. For help with government documents in the library, ask at the Information Desk. For help with online government documents, use our Ask a Librarian service.
Meet our fantastic librarians in the Faculty & Staff Directory—connect with our dedicated library team and discover the faces behind your library experience.
Curious about what's new and what's happening at the library? Explore events, updates, and discoveries that shape our vibrant community.
If you are a Drake graduate, continue your library journey beyond graduation by exploring services and resources we offer to Drake alumni.
Are you a student looking for work? Explore opportunities to be a part of our dynamic library team. Apply now and embark on a fulfilling experience while making a difference in the Drake community. Join us in shaping the future of Cowles Library!
Find out where we are and when we're open. If you're a guest planning a visit, be sure to check our guest policies and privileges to see what's available to you.
Whether you need classroom space or a meeting venue, explore room reservation options in the library. Find your ideal place to study, pull an all-nighter in Midnight Hall, or grab a snack and some essential caffeine at the Cowles Coffee Shop.
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The Library is also home to the Drake University Archives & Special Collections, which collects, arranges, preserves, and makes accessible the permanent records of the University and materials that relate to the political and social history of Iowa.
Use materials placed on reserve by your instructors
FastTRACBorrow books directly from other Iowa academic library partners
Interlibrary LoanBorrow material from libraries around the world
Request a PurchaseAsk the library to purchase books or other research materials
Drake history and Iowa political papers
Digital CollectionsOnline access to unique items from the University Archives
Featured CollectionsBooks, eBooks, and videos we highlight throughout the year
Other Campus CollectionsHandpicked by experts for your area of study
Research ConsultationSchedule a one-on-one session with a librarian
Research TutorialA guide to the research process
Librarians who specialize in your area of study
Citing SourcesFind, organize, and use your citations
Study SupportWriting Center, Speaking Center, and Tutoring
What we teach and how we can help in your courses
Library LiaisonsConnect with a librarian
Course ReservesPut material on reserve for your courses
Help with course material adoptions and textbook alternatives
OERExplore, adopt, adapt, and create open educational resources
Publishing SupportResources to help you publish your research
Detailed information about each of our archival collections
Harmful Content StatementRecognition of outdated descriptions and depictions that may exist in some archival collections
CollectionsExplore our unique physical and online collections
Exhibits & DisplaysSee what we're currently displaying and enjoy fascinating virtual exhibits
Information about visiting and using the Archives
Archives Teaching SupportInvolve Archives experts and incorporate unique materials into your courses
Purpose and mission of University Records Management
Collection PolicyPolicies governing the Records Management program
Donate & Transfer MaterialsProcedures for requesting transfer of records to us
Education & TrainingTools to help you better understand records management
FAQWhat we do and why
VisitHours, directions, and guidelines for your Archives visit
Contact & ConnectReach, follow, and support the Archives
Cowles Library faculty and staff profiles
News & EventsWhat's happening at Cowles Library
JobsStudent employment at Cowles Library
Where we are and when we're open
Alumni & VisitorsServices for Drake alumni and visitors
Navigate the library
Room ReservationsCheck availability and reserve a room
Computers & PrintingTechnology in the library
Library strategic initiatives and goals
PoliciesPolicies governing use of library resources, space, and services
Diversity, Equity, & InclusionLibrary support for diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice