The Gerstein Science Information Centre is the largest science and health science academic library in Canada. It has a print collection of over 1 million volumes of journals and books. The library also provides access to over 100,000 online journals and books. For more information, see our Collection Overview and Floor Plans.
Find our collections in the following locations:
Book stacks
Includes over 750,000 books on all aspects of physical, life, and health sciences. Books are shelved by call number.
Location:
Basement floors, Morrison Pavilion:
- 1-below (call numbers A to QM)
- 2-below (call numbers QP to Z; Old Class Materials shelved after the Z call numbers)
- 3-below - Theses/dissertations (located at the end of the journal collection)
Journal stacks
We have approximately 3,400 journal subscriptions, in both paper and electronic formats. Some titles date back to the 1700s. The library also subscribes to thousands of e-journals which can be accessed online from on- and off-campus by those who have a University of Toronto staff or student affiliation. Individual seating and desks are located at the end of selected shelves.
Location:
- Heritage Wing: 5 floors (1975-current journals); accessible by elevator
- Morrison Pavilion: 3-below, compact movable shelving (Pre-1975 journals)
Reference collection
Our reference books include encyclopedias, dictionaries, and handbooks. These items are not available to borrow, but may be used for in-library consultation.
Location: Main floor, Heritage Reading Room
Short term loan desk
Borrow books in heavy demand or reserved by request of the professor for a particular class. Loan times vary from a number of hours to a number of days, based on the item. A scanner and tables and chairs are available for use.
Location: Main floor lobby, adjacent to Loan Services Desk
The Gerstein Book Stop leisure collection
A leisure reading collection is available for students and staff at the University of Toronto. Soft seating and non-academic books are available to read in-library or to borrow for home. About the Gerstein Book Stop
Location: Main floor lobby