Please note that card access is needed to enter the building after 9pm. 

Visiting

The Gordon Library welcomes non-WPI affiliated visitors from the community during our regular hours of operation. We strive to provide a welcoming environment for all while prioritizing the needs of our primary users—WPI students, faculty, and staff.

Building Access & Spaces

Visitors are welcome to visit the library during our operating hours. Some library services are limited after 5:00 p.m. Please note that after 9:00 p.m., building access is restricted to WPI ID holders. However, visitors may contact the Library Information Desk at 508-831-5410 for admission. 

Reservable spaces, such as tech suites, phone booths, and conference rooms, are available for WPI community members only. Visitors are welcome to use any open, unreserved areas within the library.

Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or teacher when in the Gordon Library. 

Library Collection

Visitors are welcome to view and use our collections while in the library. For materials located in Founders Storage please visit the Information Desk or contact library@wpi.edu to request materials. 

Visitors can access a wide range of resources, including the library's catalog, databases, and electronic resources, with the exception of those restricted by licensing agreements that prohibit walk-in visitor access. Please note that this access is intended solely for academic and non-commercial research purposes. To access a public computer, visit the Information Desk for assistance. 

Borrowing

Borrowing privileges are limited to WPI community members only. General visitors can use materials in the library but cannot borrow items. To borrow WPI items, we encourage visitors to utilize interlibrary loan through your local public library or affiliated academic library. 

Research Help

Visitors seeking in-depth research assistance are advised to schedule an appointment with a librarian or by emailing reslib@wpi.edu. Please note that WPI students and staff receive priority for these services.

Archives & Special Collections

An appointment is encouraged when visiting Archives & Special Collections to ensure materials are available and ready for your visit. To request an appointment, please contact us at archives@wpi.edu.  

No appointment is needed to visit the Gladwin Gallery.

Technology Services

Public Computers

Public computers are available on the main level (2nd floor) of Gordon Library. Visitors must request access to these computers at the Information Desk. 

All computer usage must adhere to WPI's Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)

WiFi Access

 WPI offers two types of Guest Wireless Networks: Sponsored Guest Wireless and Self-Service Guest Wireless. For instructions on how to connect to WPI's WiFi network, visit ITS's Guest Wireless page or stop by the ITS Service Desk in-person on the main level (2nd floor) of Gordon Library. 

Printers & Scanners

Free public scanners are available on the main level (2nd floor) near the Information Desk. For large scanning projects, please consider bringing a USB flash drive. 

Guest printing is not available.