About Us

Welcome to Rod Library at the University of Northern Iowa! The Library provides access to rich information resources and innovative services for faculty, staff, and students at UNI and members of the larger community both on and off site. It is our mission to assist patrons to “embrace challenge, engage in critical inquiry and creative thought, and contribute to society as responsible world citizens.”

Library resources include books, periodicals, and government documents in print and electronic formats, databases and digitized full-text collections, maps, sound recordings, and DVDs. If we cannot provide the resources you want and need, our staff will help you locate them elsewhere and, in many instances, obtain them for you through our excellent interlibrary loan service. Our Special Collections and University Archives documents our institutional history and the work of diverse individuals and organizations, most of which have some connection to the University. Photographic essays, local and regional publications, student work, and other resources are accessible in digitized format through our growing Digital Collections.

We pride ourselves on providing personalized services whenever possible. By all means, “Ask Us” when you have a question about resources, services, or policies. If you need specialized assistance, schedule a research consultation. If you have a title to recommend for addition to the Library’s collections, submit your suggestion through the Recommend a Resource form on our website. Take advantage of our quiet study areas, group studies, collaborative research stations, and our Multipurpose Room, which you can book to rehearse a presentation. Bring your laptop and enjoy our wireless environment, or check out one of ours. While you are here, buy a Keurig cup at the MultiService Center and enjoy coffee, tea, or hot chocolate while you work. Find a book for pleasure reading or a DVD to watch in our Browsing Collection. If you are working from a dorm room or office, or are off campus, you can call us for assistance, send us an e-mail or a text message, or use our Chat function at specified hours. Check out our mobile website as well.

We are here for you, so let us be of service!

Kate Martin

Acting Dean of Library Services