The University of North Carolina (UNC) Health Sciences Library is a premier resource for healthcare professionals, students, and researchers. Located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, the library is part of the UNC Chapel Hill campus and serves as a central hub for information and education in the health sciences. With a rich history dating back to 1881, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of the healthcare community, providing access to a vast array of resources, including books, journals, databases, and digital collections.
History and Mission

The UNC Health Sciences Library was established to support the educational and research endeavors of the UNC School of Medicine. Over the years, the library has expanded its scope to serve the broader healthcare community, including the UNC Hospitals, the UNC School of Nursing, and the UNC School of Public Health. The library’s mission is to provide high-quality information services, resources, and facilities to support the education, research, and clinical activities of its users. With a strong commitment to excellence and innovation, the library has become a leader in the field of health sciences librarianship.
Collection and Resources
The UNC Health Sciences Library boasts an extensive collection of over 240,000 volumes, including books, journals, and databases. The library’s collection is particularly strong in the areas of medicine, nursing, public health, and health policy. The library also provides access to a wide range of digital resources, including online journals, e-books, and databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Additionally, the library offers a range of specialized resources, including clinical decision support tools, such as UpToDate and ClinicalKey, and point-of-care resources, such as DynaMed and Essentials of Diagnosis.
Resource Type | Number of Titles |
---|---|
Books | 120,000 |
Journals | 10,000 |
Databases | 50 |
E-books | 20,000 |

Services and Support

The UNC Health Sciences Library offers a range of services and support to its users, including research assistance, instruction, and consultation. The library’s staff are expert information professionals who can provide guidance on finding and evaluating information, as well as using the library’s resources and services. The library also offers a range of instructional programs, including workshops, classes, and online tutorials, to help users develop their information literacy skills.
Technology and Infrastructure
The UNC Health Sciences Library is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure to support the needs of its users. The library’s facilities include a range of study spaces, including quiet rooms, group study rooms, and collaboration spaces. The library also offers a range of technology resources, including computers, laptops, and mobile devices, as well as printing, scanning, and photocopying services. Additionally, the library provides access to a range of digital tools and software, including citation management tools, such as EndNote and Zotero, and data analysis software, such as SPSS and R.
Key Points
- The UNC Health Sciences Library is a premier resource for healthcare professionals, students, and researchers.
- The library's collection includes over 240,000 volumes, including books, journals, and databases.
- The library offers a range of services and support, including research assistance, instruction, and consultation.
- The library is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure, including computers, laptops, and mobile devices.
- The library provides access to a range of digital tools and software, including citation management tools and data analysis software.
Community Engagement and Outreach
The UNC Health Sciences Library is committed to community engagement and outreach, with a focus on building partnerships and collaborations with healthcare organizations, academic institutions, and community groups. The library offers a range of outreach services, including library instruction, research assistance, and consultation, to support the information needs of healthcare professionals and students. Additionally, the library participates in a range of community-based initiatives, including health literacy programs, patient education initiatives, and health disparities research projects.
Partnerships and Collaborations
The UNC Health Sciences Library has established partnerships and collaborations with a range of organizations, including the UNC Hospitals, the UNC School of Medicine, and the UNC School of Public Health. The library also collaborates with other libraries and information centers, including the National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health. These partnerships and collaborations enable the library to leverage resources, expertise, and knowledge to support the information needs of its users.
What types of resources are available at the UNC Health Sciences Library?
+The UNC Health Sciences Library offers a wide range of resources, including books, journals, databases, and digital collections. The library's collection is particularly strong in the areas of medicine, nursing, public health, and health policy.
What services are offered by the UNC Health Sciences Library?
+The UNC Health Sciences Library offers a range of services, including research assistance, instruction, and consultation. The library's staff are expert information professionals who can provide guidance on finding and evaluating information, as well as using the library's resources and services.
How can I access the UNC Health Sciences Library's digital resources?
+The UNC Health Sciences Library's digital resources are available online, and can be accessed using a valid UNC username and password. The library's website provides detailed information on how to access the library's digital resources, including online journals, e-books, and databases.
In conclusion, the UNC Health Sciences Library is a vital resource for healthcare professionals, students, and researchers. With its extensive collection, state-of-the-art technology, and expert staff, the library is well-equipped to support the information needs of its users. Whether you are looking for information on the latest medical research, seeking guidance on evidence-based practice, or simply need a quiet space to study, the UNC Health Sciences Library is an invaluable resource that can help you achieve your goals.