About Us

The University Libraries advances student success by providing excellent scholarly collections, focused and collaborative study and learning environments, direct access to faculty and staff expertise, and a range of information discovery and content-production technologies. Our faculty and staff embody Marianist education and leadership by cultivating inclusive, innovative and sustainable practices that empower students in their learning, research and creative pursuits.

Consisting of Roesch Library, the internationally recognized Marian Library and University Archives and Special Collections, the University Libraries is a hub of campus intellectual and cultural life.


Our Commitment

Grounded in the University’s Catholic and Marianist mission and its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusive excellence, the University Libraries strives to make all members of our communities feel a sense of belonging and ownership. 

The University Libraries’ vision is to be the intellectual fulcrum of the University. To do that, we work across our collections, programs, services and spaces in ways that empower all learners to succeed. 

Guiding our work is our commitment to inclusive excellence and the values we hold as an institution. We invite you to explore the ways we enhance learning, research and creativity through the many resources we provide to our community. 

— Matt Shaw, dean


Mission

As a dynamic organization that thrives in relation with our community, the Libraries respond to diverse and changing user needs. We exemplify the characteristics of Marianist education and leadership, which inform our models for innovative and sustainable collections, discovery, and service so that we can empower learning, scholarship, and creative expression.

Vision

The University of Dayton Libraries are an academic focal point, enriching the intellectual and cultural life at and beyond the University. Our faculty and staff are recognized for seamlessly connecting information and services to users, contributing to the educational mission, and preserving the history of the University of Dayton.

Values

Our mission and vision are driven by our values:

  • Inclusion

  • Collaboration

  • Curiosity

  • Respect

  • Service

  • Sustainability



Our Latest News
12.13.2025
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Third Week of Advent: Printable Ornament and Coloring Activities link-arrow link-arrow

EnJOY this ornament craft and coloring sheets!
12.10.2025
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‘Seeking Shelter’ Around Dayton link-arrow link-arrow

Nearly 60 Nativities from the Marian Library’s collection have found shelter in various departments and buildings across campus and around the Dayton area.
12.9.2025
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Juan Diego’s Journey to Sainthood link-arrow link-arrow

A 2025 Marian Fellow explores a trove of materials on Our Lady of Guadalupe’s visionary to document the saint’s arduous path to canonization.

Annual Library Awards

Each spring, University Libraries faculty and staff award three scholarships to recognize current students and their accomplishments so far at UD, providing students a boost for the upcoming academic year.  

The awards are merit-based and open to students with particular experiences:

  • The Dr. Nicoletta Hary Award goes to a returning student with a major or minor in teacher education. 
  • The Rev. Theodore Koehler, S.M., International Student Award recognizes a returning international student. 
  • The Brother Frank Ruhlman, S.M., Award of Excellence for Literary Achievement is awarded to a UD undergraduate who demonstrates excellence in writing for University publications.