The Edgar Shannon Library is the University of Virginia’s largest library building and a major center for study, research, scholarship, and collaboration. Following a comprehensive renovation and expansion from 2018 to 2024, the library reopened in January 2024 with updated facilities, improved accessibility, and new spaces for the UVA community.
The renovated building features an open layout, abundant natural light, improved wayfinding, and more than 1,400 seats for study and research. Two large Study Courts provide distinctive light-filled spaces, while a variety of reading rooms, study carrels, reservable group-study rooms, and seating throughout the stacks offer options for both quiet and collaborative work.
One of the library’s best-known spaces is the McGregor Room, affectionately known by many as the “Harry Potter Room.” The historic room was renovated while retaining its distinctive wood-paneled character, built-in shelving, fireplace, and other architectural details.
Shannon Library also houses the Scholars’ Lab and Makerspace, the Digital Humanities Center, Rare Book School, specialized collections, conservation and preservation facilities, and a café. An interior passage connects the building directly with Clemons Library, allowing visitors to move between the two libraries.
The library’s collections include extensive holdings in the humanities and social sciences, along with the Tibetan Collection, Government Documents, Buddhist and Asian Studies materials, and other specialized collections. Visitors can also see conservation and preservation work through windows into the library’s specialized workspaces.
Public Welcome: UVA Library spaces are open to the public during operating hours. Visitors are welcome to explore the building and use the library’s self-guided tour resources.
Self-Guided Tour: A self-guided tour takes visitors through highlights of Shannon Library, including the Study Courts, McGregor Room, Weinstein Room, Rare Book School, Scholars’ Lab and other notable spaces.
Hours: Library hours vary by semester and may change during holidays, breaks, and examination periods. Visitors should check the current UVA Library hours before visiting.
Accessibility: The renovated building includes accessible facilities and improved access throughout the library.
