This system is the largest in Canada, holding over 12 million volumes across 40 locations. Its Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library
The list made a simple promise to visitors: bigger = better. Parents loved it—bigger libraries suggested resources, funding, and reputation. Prospective grad students used it to brag. Departments referenced it when arguing for grants. It was tidy, numerical, and easy to compare. list of university libraries by size better
If you are a prospective graduate student or a researcher looking for the best environment, do not ask "Which library is biggest?" Ask these three questions instead: This system is the largest in Canada, holding
- 10 million volumes The University of Michigan Library is one of the largest libraries in the United States, with a collection of over 10 million volumes, including books, journals, and other materials. Prospective grad students used it to brag
The following are the largest university library systems globally and in the United States, based on recent 2024–2025 collection data. Global Leaders in Academic Collections
Several other notable university libraries didn't make our top 20 list but are worth mentioning: