UCT’s main library, the Chancellor Oppenheimer Library, and its seven branch libraries offer a diverse array of study and research materials, as well as professional and expert assistance in finding information and carrying out research.
Chancellor Oppenheimer Library
The Chancellor Oppenheimer Library offers a variety of study spaces, training and research facilities, and subject librarians specialising in the Commerce, Centre for Higher Education Development (CHED) and Enterprise, Science, Humanities and Government Publications subject areas.
Bolus Herbarium Library
The Bolus Herbarium Library is located in the H. W. Pearson Building on Upper Campus. The library contains a great wealth of early botanical works, including the writings of early 17th century travellers who visited southern Africa and explored its flora.
Brand van Zyl Law Library
Brand van Zyl Law Library has one of the best legal collections in Africa, with holdings of more than 85 000 volumes, including a rare antiquarian collection. This library serves the Faculty of Law on Middle Campus and includes a 24/7 study space.
Built Environment Library
The Built Environment Library, which first occupied two wooden huts, now serves the School of Architecture, Planning & Geomatics and the Department of Construction Economics & Management.
Health Sciences Library
Health Sciences Library, founded in 1912, was the first university medical library in South Africa. Thanks to renovation work in 2017/18, it’s now home to the Impilo Junction, a 24/7 study space for students.
Institute of Child Health Library
Institute of Child Health Library was established in 1974 and caters specifically to the needs of the academic staff and students at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital.
Hiddingh Hall Library
Hiddingh Hall Library is the university’s first purpose-built library and serves the Centre for Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies and the departments of History of Art and Fine Art.
Special Collections
UCT Libraries suffered a devastating fire on Sunday 18 April 2021. We are still assessing the damage and loss. Please note that the library holdings for Special Collections (African Studies Library, Government Publications, Rare Books and Manuscripts) may no longer be accurate.
WH Bell Music Library
WH Bell Music Library is the first completely self-contained,functionally-designed music library in Africa and serves the South African College of Music and the Centre for Theatre,Dance & Performance Studies.