Exploring the Vast Resources of Pepperdine University Libraries

Pepperdine University Libraries encompass all academic libraries within the Pepperdine University system. These libraries offer a wide array of resources and services to support the academic endeavors of students, faculty, and researchers. From traditional library services to cutting-edge technologies and unique special collections, Pepperdine Libraries play a vital role in fostering intellectual curiosity and scholarly exploration.

A Historical Overview

The story of Pepperdine Libraries begins with the founding of Pepperdine College in 1937 by George Pepperdine in South Central Los Angeles. The original library, known as the Pepperdine College Library, opened its doors in the summer of 1939, housed in a building designed by architect Henry L. In 1984, "The Wave of Excellence" campaign provided the necessary funding to modernize Payson Library, integrating computer technology and constructing a new entrance to meet the evolving needs of its users.

Services and Resources

Pepperdine University Libraries provide a comprehensive suite of services and resources designed to facilitate research, learning, and collaboration.

Common Library Services

Pepperdine University Libraries offer services that are common to most academic libraries, such as:

Research Assistance: Expert librarians provide guidance and support to students and faculty in navigating library resources and conducting effective research.
Interlibrary Loan: Access to materials not available within the Pepperdine Libraries system is facilitated through interlibrary loan services.
Information Literacy Instruction: Workshops and tutorials are offered to enhance students' information literacy skills, enabling them to critically evaluate and effectively use information resources.

InfoGuides

Pepperdine Libraries utilizes InfoGuides, a customized instance of the SpringShare LibGuides software, to provide subject-specific resources for various courses and fields of study. These guides serve as valuable tools for students seeking curated information relevant to their academic pursuits.

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Study Spaces and Technology

Recognizing the importance of conducive learning environments, Pepperdine Libraries offer reservable study rooms for students to collaborate or engage in focused individual study. Additionally, students can borrow Mac and PC laptops for up to 24 hours, ensuring access to technology for completing assignments and projects.

Course Reserves

Pepperdine Libraries maintain course reserves, providing students with convenient access to required readings and supplementary materials for their courses.

Digital Initiatives

Pepperdine University Libraries embrace technological advancements to expand access to their collections and resources.

Pepperdine Digital Collections

In 2010, Pepperdine Libraries launched Pepperdine Digital Collections, a project dedicated to digitizing and providing online access to unique archival materials from Pepperdine's holdings. These digital collections include:

The Korean War Photography of Hanson A. Baldwin.
Historic Pepperdine Films.
John Mazza Historic Surfboard Collection.

Pepperdine Digital Commons

Pepperdine Digital Commons is a platform showcasing the scholarly output of Pepperdine University faculty, students, and researchers. It includes:

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Faculty publications.
Student theses and dissertations.
Conference proceedings.

Special Collections and Archives

Pepperdine University Libraries boast a rich collection of rare books, manuscripts, and archival materials, offering unique opportunities for scholarly research and exploration.

Rare Book Collections

The rare books collection encompasses a wide range of subjects, with particular strengths in religion, history, and literature. Notable collections include:

The Mlynarski Collection of Books on 19th-Century Paris.
The Metcalf Collection of Books on T. E. Lawrence.
The Saint John's Bible.

Archival Collections

The archival collections contain historical materials related to:

The history of Malibu.
Pepperdine University.
The Churches of Christ.
Film and television.

Finding aids for the archival collections are available on the Online Archive of California.

Churches of Christ Heritage Center

Affiliated with the Churches of Christ, Pepperdine University Libraries house the Churches of Christ Heritage Center. This collection, curated by Dr. Jerry Rushford, serves as a repository of books, documents, photographs, religious periodicals, congregational histories, biographical studies, archival materials, and artifacts related to the Stone-Campbell Restoration Movement and the Churches of Christ. The Heritage Center is crucial for understanding the history and identity of Churches of Christ.

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Payson Library Renovation

In May 2016, Pepperdine University Libraries undertook a 15-month renovation of Payson Library, the main undergraduate facility. The renovation aimed to:

Expand study spaces.
Enhance environments for special collections.
Establish a makerspace and 3D printing lab.
Create new spaces for faculty-student engagement.

During the renovation, temporary library spaces were set up in the Thornton Administrative Center (TAC) and Pepperdine's Calabasas building.

Reopening and New Features

Payson Library reopened in August 2017, featuring:

Twice as many study rooms and quiet study areas.
An updated and expanded Heritage Center.
The Genesis Lab, a makerspace with 3D printing and virtual reality equipment.
The Boone Special Collections and Archives, featuring preservation technology, reading and seminar rooms, and exhibits.
A Starbucks coffeeshop.

Locations and Staff

Pepperdine Libraries has six branches throughout California, staffed by 19 librarians and 14 full-time staff members.

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