Library and Archives Homepage: Community Patrons

The Wiggin Library holds at least one copy of every published book/article on the Ministerial Fellowship Committee (MFC) reading list (available through the UUA website). These materials are available to every patron with circulation privileges. MFC books can be browsed based on the seven MFC ministerial competencies. A selection of ebooks from the MFC reading list are also available

Access MFC Reading List

Home delivery is a service available to Meadville Lombard students, faculty, staff, and community library patrons. Any book in the circulating collection published after 1870 (depending on condition) and I-Share items (for MLTS students) can be shipped to to your home. The Wiggin Library covers the cost of shipping library items to patrons, with patrons paying the return shipping. Library materials can be sent via USPS using library rate or media mail. For more information about receiving and return books via the mail, see Using the Online Catalog - USPS Delivery Guide.

To return library items...

Pack the item in a sturdy, secure box or padded envelope. If items are returned in damaged condition due to insufficient packing, you will be responsible for replacement costs. Mail items to:

Meadville Lombard Wiggin Library
180 N. Wabash Ave.
Suite 625 
Chicago, IL 60601

In addition to our extensive print holdings, Wiggin Library provides access to a host of digital resources as well. These can be accessed by clicking the link buttons above the search bar or these links below: 

• Articles and Journals provides an overview of the most common digital databases used by our community patrons to access academic articles. If you are a current student, click here to access the more extensive resource available to you. 
• Encyclopedias, Dictionaries, and Reference Resources provides an overview of commonly used reference resources. 
• UU Resources provides a curated selection of Unitarian, Universalist, and Unitarian Universalist research resources. 
• Subject Guides provides access to library resources organized around specific topics. Of particular note is the A-Z Resource list, which is a searchable list of over 400 digital resources databases and online resources related to religion. 

Wiggin Library has a team of experienced theological librarians serving its patrons. Our librarians are subject specialists in Unitarian Universalism. We can provide research assistance related to Unitarianism, Universalism, Unitarian Universalism, Liberal Religion, Humanism, Spiritualism, and New Religious Movements. 

The Library and Archives also provides support related to citation practices, UU archival research, graduate school reading strategies, and much more. If you think we can help, just ask!

Once you are at 180 N. Wabash, take the elevator to the 6th floor. Once off the elevator, turn left, and then right to access Suite 625. 

No ID is required to use the space or access resources onsite. Identification is only required when checking out books. 

Students, faculty, and staff should present their Meadville ID on the Populi app when checking out books in-person. 

Alum and Community patrons should present a photo ID that matches the name used on their library account when checking out books in person.

Patrons from I-Share libraries must present their school ID and/or library card to check out books from the Wiggin Library or any other I-Share school.

Patrons from ACTS schools must present a photo or school ID and their ACTS library card when checking out books. Students from ACTS schools without an ACTS library card should contact the staff at their school’s library for assistance.

• Circulation/reference desk for students to work with library staff 
• iPads that can be checked out 
• Printing station 
• Photocopier 
• 5 Tables
• 2 individual study carrels
• 4 lounge chairs 
• Browsable new book displays and course reserves
• Restrooms (gender neutral restroom is available on the 7th floor)
• Wheelchair lift to upper-level book stacks

• The library door will be kept locked at all times, except during posted open hours.
• The library encourages students and staff to take advantage of the library space as a place to work individually or in small groups.
• All patrons are expected to respect the library space and resources, and to respect the right of other users to work in a quiet, clean, and peaceful atmosphere. Due to the limited amount of space in the library, the library prioritizes student and course-related use of space.
• Limited food and drink are allowed in the library space. Drinks must have lids and be kept sealed if not being used. Light snacks are allowed with the expectation of maintaining a quiet and clean study environment. Restrictions to food and drink being brought into the library are at the discretion of library staff on duty. All food and drink must be kept off the worktables or study carrels if library materials are being used.

The Meadville Lombard Archives and Special Collections is located right in the center of Chicago's downtown in the Loop. We are open 9:00am to 5:00pm, Monday through Friday by appointment. For researchers traveling to Chicago, we have special room rates at local hotels. Due to building security, all archive visits must be scheduled ahead of time. To arrange a visit, email us at archives@meadville.edu with the dates and times you want to visit and the collections you would like to use.