University of Virginia History and Research

UVA has a long, complex, and interesting history. This guide describes resources for researching individuals, topics, departments, administrative units, and other histories of the University. These collections can be found online, in person at Shannon Library, at the Small Special Collections Library, and, sometimes, at other libraries and institutions.  

If you're still not sure where to look first, contact the Reference Team at library@virginia.edu or at stop by the Reference Desk at the 4th floor Service and Information Desk at Shannon Library. 

Photo: University Communications

Getting Started: All researchers should begin with this page, as these resources will be useful on nearly any topic.  Includes information on data, the Board of Visitors, and Thomas Jefferson. 

University Archives: An overview. Includes links to the professional school's archival collections. 

Students and Alumni: Resources on student life, alums, athletics, and more. Includes instructions on locating information about an individual who attended UVA. 

Newspapers, Magazines, and other publications: Overviews of University, alumni, and student publications. 

Faculty, Administration, Budget, and the President: Resources for researching University administration, individual faculty members, and academic departments. 

Buildings & Grounds: Resources on the buildings and grounds (campus).  

Photographs: A selection of photographic collections covering the history of the University.