The Northeastern University's Snell Library is a comprehensive research library that provides a wide range of resources and services to support the academic and research needs of the university community. Located in the heart of the Boston campus, the Snell Library is a hub of intellectual activity, offering a vast collection of physical and digital materials, cutting-edge technology, and expert librarians to assist with research and information needs.
Collection and Resources

The Snell Library’s collection encompasses over 900,000 physical volumes, 800,000 e-books, and 70,000 journals, as well as numerous databases, datasets, and digital collections. The library’s holdings are diverse and interdisciplinary, supporting the university’s academic programs in fields such as business, engineering, health sciences, humanities, social sciences, and more. The library also provides access to a wide range of digital resources, including online journals, e-books, and databases, through its website and online portals.
Special Collections and Archives
The Snell Library is home to several special collections and archives, including the Northeastern University Archives, the Boston Globe Archive, and the Holocaust Awareness Committee Collection. These collections provide unique and valuable resources for researchers, including rare books, manuscripts, photographs, and other primary sources. The library’s special collections and archives are particularly strong in areas such as Boston history, social justice, and community engagement.
| Collection | Description |
|---|---|
| Northeastern University Archives | Documents the history of Northeastern University, including records, photographs, and artifacts |
| Boston Globe Archive | Provides access to the archives of the Boston Globe newspaper, dating back to 1872 |
| Holocaust Awareness Committee Collection | Collects materials related to the Holocaust, including books, documents, and personal testimonies |

Services and Support

The Snell Library offers a range of services and support to help students, faculty, and staff achieve their academic and research goals. These services include research assistance, instruction and workshops, technology support, and accessibility services. The library’s expert librarians are available to provide guidance on research methods, database selection, and citation management, as well as to offer instruction on information literacy and critical thinking.
Research Assistance
The Snell Library provides research assistance through various channels, including in-person consultations, phone and email support, and online chat services. The library’s research assistants are available to help with topics such as database selection, search strategy development, and citation management. The library also offers subject-specific research guides and tutorials to support students and faculty in their research endeavors.
Key Points
- The Snell Library offers a comprehensive collection of physical and digital materials to support academic and research needs
- The library provides access to special collections and archives, including the Northeastern University Archives and the Boston Globe Archive
- Expert librarians are available to provide research assistance, instruction, and technology support
- The library offers a range of services, including research assistance, instruction, and accessibility services
- The library's website and online portals provide access to digital resources, including online journals, e-books, and databases
Technology and Infrastructure
The Snell Library is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure to support the academic and research needs of the university community. The library offers a range of computing and printing services, including laptops, desktops, and mobile devices, as well as scanners, printers, and other equipment. The library also provides wireless access to the internet and a range of software applications, including productivity tools, data analysis software, and multimedia editing programs.
Digital Scholarship and Innovation
The Snell Library is committed to supporting digital scholarship and innovation, offering a range of services and resources to support faculty and student research. The library’s digital scholarship team provides expertise in areas such as data management, digital pedagogy, and digital humanities, as well as support for emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality. The library also offers a range of digital tools and platforms, including digital repositories, data visualization software, and multimedia production equipment.
What types of resources are available at the Snell Library?
+The Snell Library offers a wide range of resources, including physical and digital books, journals, databases, and special collections and archives.
How can I get research assistance at the Snell Library?
+The Snell Library offers research assistance through various channels, including in-person consultations, phone and email support, and online chat services.
What types of technology and infrastructure are available at the Snell Library?
+The Snell Library offers a range of computing and printing services, including laptops, desktops, and mobile devices, as well as scanners, printers, and other equipment.
In conclusion, the Northeastern University’s Snell Library is a vibrant and dynamic resource that supports the academic and research needs of the university community. With its comprehensive collection, expert librarians, and state-of-the-art technology, the Snell Library is an essential hub of intellectual activity and discovery. Whether you are a student, faculty member, or staff, the Snell Library has something to offer, from research assistance and instruction to digital scholarship and innovation.