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Building & Facilities

History of the Building

Pitts Theology Library is housed in the oldest building on the Emory Campus, constructed in 1915. The School of Theology originally occupied the top floor, and the university chapel occupied what is now the Durham Reading Room. The original library for the School of Theology was held in the room now containing our periodical collection (to the left of the circulation desk as you enter the building).

The age and condition of our building make housing our unique and large collection challenging. Temperature and humidity levels must be kept low to prevent dangerous mold outbreaks. Because of the cooler temperature, guests may find long-term study challenging. We recommend bringing a sweater!

In addition, the age and design of the building prohibit significant structural modifications such as adding elevators or more modernized lighting. The construction of a new library building is scheduled to begin in 2008.

Access to the Building

For library guests who are unable to climb stairs, access by way of ramps is available. A ramp on the side of the building closest to the Callaway Building provides access to the main floor (ring the doorbell at the top of the ramp for entry into the building). A ramp at the back door of the library closest to the Cannon Chapel entrance provides access to the ground floor.

Library staff are available to retrieve books for patrons who are unable to do so themselves. Please inquire at the circulation desk for assistance.

Restrooms

There is a restroom for women on the main level near the entrance to the Periodicals Room and one for men on the ground level next to the stairs. There are also restrooms on the top level: one for women in the book stacks area and one for men near the entrance to Special Collections.

Food and Beverages

The consumption of food in any public area of Pitts Library is not permitted. The consumption of beverages within Pitts Library is limited to liquids carried in spill proof containers or re-sealable drink bottles which must be secured to avoid spills. Beverages are not permitted in the Special Collections reading area.

Study Carrells

Study carrels throughout the building are available on a “first-come” basis and are not available for storing personal items or library books. We strongly recommend that you not leave personal valuables (computers, cell phones, etc.) unattended anywhere in the library. Pitts Theology Library is not responsible for the loss or theft of personal belongings.

Cell Phone Use

The Pitts Theology Library is committed to providing an environment that is conducive for study. To this end, patrons of the library are asked to turn off cell phones and pagers or to set them to “vibrate” when entering the library. If you receive a call while in the building and you must answer the call, please be considerate of others and keep your voice lowered. If your conversation will last more than a few seconds, go outside the library for the call, being sure to take your valuable belongings with you. To report inappropriate cell phone usage, contact a staff member at the nearest service point.