Recall the days when community colleges transformed into state universities. The Malcolm A. Love Library stands as a testament to such a transformation. It is a landmark at San Diego State University. Commonly referred to as University Library, it opened in 1971.
This library is named after Dr. Malcolm A. Love. He was the university’s fourth president. Love served from 1952 to 1971. Before his presidency at SDSU, he led the University of Nevada for two years. During his time, Dr. Love elevated the institution. He changed it from a teachers college into a respected university.
In 1966, the Carnegie Corporation recognized Dr. Love. They named him one of the best college presidents in the country. His leadership spurred growth in students, faculty, and facilities. This growth led to plans for a new library. It was dedicated to Dr. Love in May 1971.
The Malcolm A. Love Library isn’t just a building. It’s a hub of knowledge. It supports multiple campuses of San Diego State University. These campuses are in Southern California and Northern Baja California, Mexico. The library is located on Montezuma Mesa in San Diego’s College Area.
In 1996, the library expanded. The Info Dome opened. It improved Library & Information Access for all students. Manchester Hall, a two-story underground addition, was added. It features a state-of-the-art Media Center, a 24/7 Study Area, and electronic classrooms.
The Info Dome’s glass and steel atrium serves as the new entrance. This iconic design has become a symbol of the university library. The Malcolm A. Love Library occupies more than 500,000 square feet. It offers seating for over 3,000 people. It circulates more than 488,000 books each year.
Inside, you’ll find more than 2.2 million volumes. There are 4.6 million microform items. The library also holds 139,000 E-Books and 140,000 maps. The Malcolm A. Love Library has been a selective depository library since 1962. It receives items from the U.S. Government Printing Office. It is also a complete depository library with the California State Depository Library Program.
The library’s Map Collection includes over 135,000 sheet maps. It also holds more than 1,000 atlases and gazetteers. The collection focuses on San Diego, California, the United States, and Baja California.
Special Collections and University Archives houses rare books. It also holds periodicals, manuscripts, and historical items. Two restored murals are on display at the library. NRA Packages, painted in 1936 by Genevieve Burgeson Bredo, depicts men unloading packages. George Sorenson’s San Diego Industry portrays tuna fishing and canning.
The Malcolm A. Love Library provides access to technology. There are 3D printers and multiple computer labs. It holds more than 1.6 million books, serials, and media titles. The Malcolm A. Love Library is more than just a library. It’s a place of learning, discovery, and growth.