Skip to Main Content

New Student Guide

Welcome to The Cooper Union Library!

Using The Cooper Union Library

The Cooper Union Library StacksLocated on the ground floor of the Foundation Building, we are open seven days a week, but hours vary, so check the hours page before venturing over.

Finding Books, Articles and Other Resources

The circulating book collection is arranged according to the Library of Congress classification system—broad subjects broken down into an alpha-numeric call number found on the spine of the book.

To determine if the library has the book or books you need, you can search for the title, author or subject in the library's online catalog — the search box at the top of the library's homepage.

Library Search Widget

The first tab, "Books & More," searches the Cooper Union library collections, as well as those of New York University, The New School, the New York School of Interior Design, and others. 

The second tab "Articles and Databases" takes you to an A-Z list of The Cooper Union Library's collection of ebooks, ejournals and other databases you can access anywhere on campus and remotely (more on that below).

The third tab lets you search for a specific E-Journal, and the fourth tab searches lets you search for Course Reserve readings.  

It can all be a little confusing at first, so don't hesitate to ask us for help. We love helping students find the information you need.

Getting Help

If you have any trouble finding the book or other information you need, you can just stop by the front desk and we are always happy to help you find what you need, or if that's not convenient, just chat with us online. The chat box will pops up when you hit the website.

Checking Out Books

Your Cooper Union ID card is your library card, so bring it with you in case you find a book your can't live without. More detailed information on the services and policies can be found on the Checkout, Renew, Return page.

Connecting Remotely

Connecting to the Library from a cafe.As excited as we are to welcome you back to the Library, we know that it's not always possible or convenient to stop by.

Searching for Books, Articles, and Other Resources

Fortunately, the Library's online resources, including e-books, e-journals, and databases containing various information sources, are accessible from anywhere. All you need is your @cooper.edu account login.

Issues logging in? You can email circulation@cooper.edu and we will help resolve the issue. 

Requesting an Item for Pick Up or eDelivery

If you need a book or article—whether it's in The Cooper Union Library, one of the consortium libraries, or even if you're not sure who has it, you can submit a request, and we will email you when it is ready for pick-up. Or, if you just need an article or chapter, we will email it to you directly. 

Consulting with a Librarian 

Our librarians are also available for online research consultations. Whether you have a quick question or a complex assignment, you can chat, email or set up a consultation in-person or via Teams or Zoom.

Access to other Academic Libraries

In addition to the information resources of The Cooper Union Library, you also have access to the libraries of New York University, The New School, the New York School of Interior Design and Cardozo School of Law.

Access to NYU's Bobst Library

The Bobst Library is now open to Cooper Union students and faculty who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

At Bobst, you can show your Cooper ID to the security guard (located on your righthand side when you walk in) and you should be able to go right in. If you have any trouble, give us a call or chat, and we'll try to help from here!*
*Please note, sometimes issues with entry can take more than 24 hours to solve. We apologize for the inconvenience but sometimes must allow our security and IT departments to resolve the issue with NYU's campus safety and IT departments.

Access to The New School Libraries

The New School (TNS) Libraries and Archives are allowing visitors [alumniconsortium members, outside researchers (by appointment)] who meet vaccination and booster requirements (refer to Gaining Access to Buildings) on campus. Individuals who wish to visit the Libraries must follow the University’s protocols (more details soon):

  • Individual visitors must check in at the Welcome Center Visitors Desk (72 Fifth Avenue) to receive a daily guest pass. 

  • Proof of vaccination and a booster are required for campus access. No exemptions or exceptions will be allowed.

  • Masks must be worn at all times in campus buildings. 

Access to the New York School of Interior Design Library

Access to the NYSID Library no longer requires proof of vaccination, but be sure to check their website before going, in case circumstances have changes.

TODAY'S HOURS

Print Page
Login to LibApps
FOLLOW US Facebook Instagram Twitter

The Cooper Union Library
7 E 7th St.
New York, NY
10003