Academic libraries are established to support the teaching and research mission of a college or university. They provide a range of resources and services to meet the information needs of the academic community and to facilitate the pursuit of knowledge and scholarship.
The main patrons of academic libraries are typically students, faculty, and other members of the academic community at the institution where the library is located. These patrons rely on the library for access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and other print materials, as well as online resources, such as databases, e-books, and electronic journals. In addition to providing access to these resources, academic libraries may also offer a range of services, such as research assistance, instruction in the use of library resources, and access to specialized research facilities, such as labs or studios.