Frequently Asked Questions

Last Updated February 2, 2024

Can I visit Wilson Library?

Wilson Library is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM. No food is permitted inside the library. Securely covered drinks that will not spill if tipped over may be brought in.

Wilson Library Hours

  • 9 AM – 5 PM Monday through Friday
  • Closed Saturdays and Sundays

Research Room Hours

Hours may change during holidays and intersessions. Visit our library hours page for updates.

Wilson Library Spaces

  • The Fearrington Reading Room is open for quiet study
  • The North Carolina Collection Gallery and Saltarelli Exhibit Room are open with exhibits
  • The Research Room is open for researchers using Special Collections materials. Appointments are highly encouraged

How can I access special collections materials?

Access materials in person

The Research Room at Wilson Library is open by appointment.

Scheduling a virtual research consultation may be helpful if

  • You are a researcher not affiliated with UNC
  • This will be your first time conducting research using Special Collections materials
  • You are planning an extended research visit of more than 3 days

All other researchers are also encouraged to discuss research needs and service options with librarian before visiting:

Access materials online

Some of our unique materials have been digitized for research, teaching, and discovery. Our Digital Exhibitions and Collections page is a good place to start.

If you are looking for specific materials or have questions about accessing collections, write to us at wilsonlibrary@unc.edu.

Can I order scans of special collections materials?

You may request limited reproductions of collection materials through your user account. Note that copying services may not be available for some materials and can only be done as conditions and restrictions allow. Visit our Request Copies page for more information.

Can I acquire publication-quality images from Wilson Library’s collections?

Yes, you can make a photoduplication request through your user account and indicate that you need to publish the item.

My class needs to use special collections materials this semester. What can I do to provide high-quality instruction experiences?

Classes are welcome to schedule an instruction session to visit the library and learn using Special Collections materials with the aid of one of our instruction librarians. Use our online form to request an instruction session and we will be in touch to talk through your instruction needs.

Can I check out North Carolina Collection circulating materials?

Yes, request items through their catalog records using your Onyen or borrower’s card credentials.

Where should I park?

Location

Wilson Library is located in the center of UNC’s campus, directly across South Road from the Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower. If using a GPS device to locate us, use this address:

200 South Road
Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Parking

Parking options within a few blocks of Wilson Library include

  • The Rams Head Parking Deck at 33 Ridge Road
  • Metered parking along South Road and Country Club Road

Check UNC Transportation and Parking’s Visitor Parking page for the current status of parking availability and a visitor parking map.

Disability access

The accessible entrance to Wilson Library is the east-side entrance of the building, facing the Undergraduate Library.

UNC disability parking spaces are located behind the Undergraduate Library, directly across from Stadium Drive. They are accessible from the South Road entrance.

Inside the building, the elevator is located past the east-side stairwell. The elevator allows access to all public areas in Wilson Library.

Where can I study in Wilson Library?

  • The Fearrington Reading Room (quiet study) on the third floor
  • The Wilson Library lobby on the second (main) floor
  • The Music Library on the first floor
  • Seating on the first-floor hallway

No food is permitted inside the library. Securely covered drinks that will not spill if tipped over may be brought in.

Can I schedule a meeting or an event in the Pleasants Family Assembly Room?

The Pleasants Family Assembly Room is reservable on weekdays by University departments and offices. For more information, please review our Guidelines for Use.

Can I visit your exhibitions?

There are five places where visitors can view exhibitions.

  • The North Carolina Collection Gallery
  • The Saltarelli Exhibition Room on the third floor
  • The Pleasants Family Assembly Room
  • Display cases along the main hallway leading to the Research Room
  • Digital exhibitions on our Digital Collections page

Can I schedule a tour of Wilson Library?

While we are unable to offer guided tours at this time, you are still welcome to visit and explore public spaces in the library:

First floor

Second (main) floor

  • The North Carolina Collection Gallery
  • The exhibition in the Pleasants Family Assembly Room
  • Display cases along the main hallway leading to the Research Room

Third floor

  • The Fearrington Reading Room
  • The Saltarelli Exhibition Room

My question is not addressed in this FAQ.

Contact us for more information about Wilson Library’s available services and spaces.