Join the University Libraries today from 1-2:30 p.m. in the west lobby for cake in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the construction of the David W. Mullins Library. Two new exhibits are also on display in the lobby level showing the history of the Libraries and the university. 

The first University of Arkansas library was housed on the second floor of Old Main, after construction was completed in 1875. The library was open for less than two hours daily, with a student librarian in charge and an annual book budget of $800. 

In 1935, Vol Walker Library was constructed through the Federal Public Works Administration. The David W. Mullins Library, named for the University of Arkansas' 14th president, replaced Vol Walker Library as the main library on campus when it was built in 1968. The student population for the fall 1968 semester was 10,549. The doors to Mullins opened on Sept. 16, the first day of classes. For the first time, the University of Arkansas library had open stacks. 

In 1997, Mullins Library was renovated and expanded for the first time. The student population for the spring 1997 semester was 13,389. A federal grant and the Walton Charitable Support Foundation provided funding for the expansion, furnishings, and the Electronic Full-Text Project, which enabled the library to acquire full-text electronic resources to support a wide range of academic programs and disciplines. 

The University of Arkansas Libraries currently comprises Mullins Library, the Chemistry and Biochemistry Library, the Fine Arts Library, the Physics Library, and the Young Law Library. This semester, renovations will begin in Mullins Library for the second time. With a student population of 27,778 for the fall 2018 semester, more study space is needed now than ever before. Upgrades will include a makerspace, a multimedia lab, and enhanced group and individual study rooms. 

The Libraries look forward to seeing you this afternoon as we celebrate our rich history.