The James Branch Cabell Library is the busiest academic library in the Commonwealth of Virginia. It sees more than 2 million visitors annually–most of them undergraduate students–and runs an around-the-clock operation to meet the needs of VCU’s diverse student population.
Cabell Library is the physical center of VCU’s urban Monroe Park Campus. The modern university—created in 1968 with the merger of the Medical College of Virginia and the Richmond Professional Institute—literally grew up around Cabell, which is situated between the VCU Student Commons and the Shafer Court Dining Center, and is flanked by an arts center, classrooms, University College and within a quick walk to historic buildings Founder’s Hall, Ginter House and others on Franklin Street and Cathedral Place. The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart is in our front yard—a shady green space. Cabell sits on “The Compass” a brick plaza that is a bustling center of VCU community life—from games playing and impromptu performances to political protests and voter registration drives. (James Branch Cabell Library)
I have a friend in the area that was able to swipe me in to the library as I am not currently a student. The four story building is huge and modern and you almost feel swallowed up when you walk through the doors. Being a university library the resources are impressive. The library also includes a Starbucks
Parking for someone who currently is not a student there is difficult. VCU is located in the middle of Richmond City so your best bet to find parking that is also free is a side street near campus and take the 10 minute walk to campus. Very similarly to our ODU library you can use use inter-library loans, reserve private spaces, has a silent floor. Currently, there are over twenty staff members at the James Branch Cabell Library. The library is involved in many campus events and workshops that are free for students to attend.
Along with multiple designate desks spaces the library also includes lots of nooks and cozy spaces for students to use. I really appreciated how even though the space is enormous the layout and furniture set up give of the classic small library feel with all the single person chairs and spaces. They also have a floor dedicated to just technology and computers. I was pleasantly surprised at how full and busy the library space was it was hard to get quick photos without students walking in and out of the frame. Throughout the whole building they use an accent purple wall that I think helps give off an energetic vibe to the space. Colors greatly affect people and I think choosing that bold purple was a smart move.
In my opinion the most interesting part in the library are the special collection archive and the small art exhibits that are located throughout the space. I did not take photos as this is not my archives blog post but they have a pretty extensive collection.
I do not want to make this blog post too long but the history behind the name of the library is pretty interesting and I have included a direct link below.
https://www.library.vcu.edu/about/history/cabell/
References
The James Branch Cabell Library. https://www.library.vcu.edu/spaces-tech/james-branch-cabell-library/
Hello Lindsey,
The person whom the library is named after was an interesting read, thanks for sharing that. The seating in the walk ways looks nice and inviting. The computer lab looks like an old office I used to work at; cubicles and computers spread out but still some privacy. I hadn’t thought about what it would be like to work at a 24 hour library until you mentioned how they operate. I like the big sign leading into the quiet area; tells everyone exactly what they need to know so there are no excuses when one violates those rules. Thanks for the tour!
Jason
Hi Lindsey,
I have taken several groups of students to VCU for college tours, so I have also been in this space, and it’s a great place for college students. VCU does a great job of utilizing space in the middle of a big city, and the library never feels cramped. I remember a tour guide telling my seniors once, “If you fail, you’re an idiot or lazy, because there are countless resources and free tutoring all over this building to make sure you pass your classes. You just show up and they help you!” A mission of student success is evident in the space by its organization, thoughtful spaces, and nice touches like the quiet zone (and Starbucks!). Thanks for sharing!
Rachael
Hi Lindsey!
Did you go to VCU for undergrad? Did you spend a lot of time in the library back then? I bet it’s pretty different to see it again from a more critical perspective.
It’s great to see such a busy academic library. The students must really enjoy the space. I’d be interested in learning more about 20 different staff positions – they must keep busy!
Karen
HI!
I actually went to Radford University as my undergrad but living in Richmond you meet several alumni and students all the time. A lot of the staff is actually students!