University of Tartu Library

Welcome to the University of Tartu Library!

With nearly 4 million books and constantly growing number of databases, the University of Tartu Library is the largest academic library in Estonia.

We support educational and research activities and offer students and researchers:

• a learning and working environment
• access to databases
• consultation for composing research papers, finding necessary materials and using databases
• training in information literacy and research data management.

The library also manages the university's digital archive in DSpace, where scientific, master's, and bachelor's theses, as well as digitized books, manuscripts, and periodicals, are preserved.

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Mission and vision of the University of Tartu Library

Mission: As Estonia’s leading research library, we ensure free access to knowledge, value and preserve the university’s academic and cultural heritage, and provide an inspiring environment for learning and research for both university members and the wider Estonian society.

Vision: We are an innovative knowledge hub where solutions created through people and technology shape the academic community and support the development of society.

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Story of the University of Tartu Library

The founding date of the University of Tartu Library is considered to be June 23 (June 11 in the Julian calendar), 1802, when the first entry was made in the lending book. At that time, the library held around 4,000 volumes, a significant portion of which came from a collection donated by Maria Aurora von Lestocq.

Read more about the history of UT Library here.

• Statutes of the University of Tartu Library
• Tartu Ülikooli raamatukogu arengukava 2026-2030
• University of Tartu Library Year Books and Annual Reports
• University of Tartu Library LOGOS