As the new semester begins, many students flock to the central library to search for textbooks and reference materials for their assignments. Upon entering through the main entrance and navigating the stairs to find their desired books, they often realize that what seemed like the first floor is actually the second. This guide will provide essential usage information to help students, especially freshmen, make better use of the central library.
Central Library
From the entrance of the building, a circular opening in the roof immediately catches the eye. Inside, the center of the building is open, with a staircase in the middle, allowing clear visibility of different floors. While this design provides an advantage in terms of accessibility, it also has the drawback of allowing noise from any floor to resonate throughout the entire building.
The library consists of two underground floors and four above-ground floors. From the first floor down to the second basement level, the space is dedicated to bookshelves. The second floor houses the circulation desk, IF Zone, and seminar rooms. On the third floor, the IC Zone and reserved book collections are available, while the fourth-floor features lockers and a rooftop garden.
To enter the library, students must scan their access pass, either using the student ID QR code on the Dongguk Pass application or their physical student ID card. Upon entering, a staircase leading downstairs is located straight ahead, where students can purchase textbooks. This bookstore was previously located in Dahyang Hall, while once available stationery items there have been relocated to the first floor of Sangnok Hall. The bookstore also has an entrance that connects both the interior and exterior of the building. It is located along the path from the 9th floor of the New Engineering Building to the main entrance of the Central Library.
Dongguk University’s library holds approximately 1.6 million books, ranking among the top 20 university libraries in the country. The second basement level contains books on general works, languages, literature, and history. The first basement level houses books on social sciences and business, along with newspapers and special collections, and a designated copy room is available. On the first floor, the Buddhist Studies Room and the Rare Books Room can be found. The second floor features the IF Zone, the circulation desk, and an information desk. The IF Zone, located to the left of the staircase, is an open space where students can freely use laptops for studying and completing assignments.
The third floor contains computers, books on pure and applied sciences, and the IC Zone. A self-service kiosk at the entrance of the IC Zone allows students to reserve study spaces. Inside, study rooms and seminar rooms are available, making it an ideal environment for group discussions and collaborative work. Towards the back of the IC Zone, bean bags are arranged to provide students with a space to relax and rest. The fourth floor is equipped with lockers and a rooftop garden, offering a quiet area for students to unwind.
The status of reading room availability and resource searches can be accessed on the Dongguk University Central Library website. Through the Central Library website, users can search for books, apply for book loans, and check their loan status. Additionally, it provides research support by allowing searches for theses and reports. The Dongguk University Central Library website also recommends popular books, travel books, and employment-related books for students. Furthermore, students can earn Dream Path mileage by participating in extracurricular programs held at the Central Library.
Consumption of food and beverages is prohibited inside the reading rooms. Only bottled water with a lid or water in a tumbler is allowed; the entry of any other beverages is strictly forbidden. Additionally, using laptops outside designated laptop areas and engaging in phone calls are not permitted. There is a designated laptop space in the second reading room on the fourth floor, and laptop usage areas are also available in the IC Zone on the third floor and in the right corner of each resource room.
Beyond serving as a traditional study space, the library functions as a comprehensive facility that caters to various academic and personal needs. Making full use of its resources and spaces can significantly enhance the learning experience.