Campus Libraries are open to Smith students, faculty and staff who are in the campus COVID-19 screening program. Emeriti faculty, Five College students who are registered for a Smith course, and Smith research affiliates are also welcomed. Please note that an active OneCard is required for access to either swipe in or to show upon entry. Contact ithelp@smith.edu with questions about obtaining or activating a OneCard. Masks continue to be required in all indoor shared spaces.

Welcome to the new Neilson! As the intellectual heart of the campus, the library celebrates learning and discovery. Renowned architectural designer Maya Lin’s vision has reimagined the building as a place of beauty, harmony, connection and community. Illuminating down through five stories, the atrium’s oculus is a beacon of light, while glass windows throughout bring the natural landscape outside in. Take a virtual tour and enjoy innovative spaces and awe-inspiring views. See for yourself why Maya Lin describes Neilson as “calmly natural,” and why President McCartney says the library “invites us to explore the world in all its wonder.”

Building Access

Download a Floor-by-floor guide to the Neilson Library

Building access is limited to students, faculty and staff who are in the campus COVID-19 screening program, as well as faculty emeriti, Five College students enrolled in Smith courses, and Smith research affiliates. Masks are required in all indoor spaces. Entry is controlled by OneCard access. Building capacity is not currently limited. Campus community members may check the building capacity before visiting.

While Neilson Library is not yet open to the public, we look forward to welcoming visitors in the future. 

Services and Collections

Services

Library visitors may:

• Access study areas
• Browse books and journals
• Pick up requested items
• Use self checkout stations
• Return library items
• Use print/copy/scan stations

Collection Locations

Neilson Spaces & Technology