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Library Building & Amenities Guide

Where to find things in the UMSL University Libraries (Thomas Jefferson, St. Louis Mercantile, and State Historical Society)

Security & Safety

DO NOT, under any circumstances, leave laptop computers or any valuables unattended in the Libraries. The Libraries are NOT responsible for lost or stolen laptops, personal computers, their components, or any other items.

Public Service Desk

At the Public Service desk (located just inside the entrance) you can:

  • Check out, renew, and return books (including Reserve, UMSL, MERLIN, MOBIUS and Interlibrary Loan items), and study room keys.
  • Get Reference help to find books, articles and other materials
  • Obtain assistance with microform materials
  • Inquire about directions and other information

Library Instruction Room (Room 315)

The Library Instruction Room is located on the main floor of the Thomas Jefferson Library (Level 3, on the left side of the Research Commons/Computer Lab) and is used to provide Instruction sessions to University of Missouri-St. Louis students.

Research Commons / Computer Lab

The Library Commons computing lab is managed by UMSL's Instructional Support Services department (part of Information Technology Services).  They are available to faculty, staff, students, and other authorized users. The LRC is staffed by Support consultants who can help with basic computer issues and answer questions about the lab's hardware and software.

  • The Library Research Commons closes 30 minutes before the libraries close.
  • Users must log in using their SSO ID. Please refer to UMSL's Instructional Support Services site for policies & information.

St. Louis Mercantile Library & State Historical Society

The Mercantile Library is located primarily on Level 2, with exhibit space on Level 1.  The State Historical Society is located on the second level, just outside the elevators, to one side of the staircase.