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Who we are
The Center for Research Libraries (CRL) is a global network of university, college, and research libraries that has supported original research and multidisciplinary teaching for over 75 years.
Researchers worldwide benefit from CRL's shared collections, which enhance local library resources, and from services designed to maximize their impact and accessibility. CRL members actively shape its direction through participation in the Board, committees, and working groups.
Together, CRL staff and members address key challenges in scholarly research by:
- Building shared physical and digital collections to complement member libraries.
- Providing cost-effective, on-demand digitization for easier access.
- Minimizing duplication and aligning physical preservation with digital access.
- Offering tools and services to guide smarter collection decisions.
Learn more about the scope of our work and what's in store for CRL
Highlights of our Digital Collections
Hunter Collection
The Hunter Collection consists of mass education material, directories and guidebooks published in Hong Kong and in Mainland China, particularly Shanghai, in the years 1947-1954 and collected by Edward Hunter.
Sajjad Zaheer and Razia Sajjad Zaheer archives.
Collection of material by and about Sajjad Zahir and Raziyyah Sajjad Zahir, including correspondence, newspaper articles, notes, manuscripts, books, photographs, and miscellaneous materials.
Historical botanical illustrations preserved at East African Herbarium in Nairobi, Kenya
Collection of over 1500 plant species illustrations dating back to 1929 held by East African Herbarium in Nairobi, Kenya, and digitized by them, 2018-2019.
News
CRL Welcomes the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation On Site
The Center for Research Libraries (CRL) was honored to host a visit from Japhet Aryiku, Executive Director of the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation (WEBDBMF), a nonprofit dedicated to honoring the legacy of Dr. W.E.B. Du Bois through the redevelopment...
CRL Annual Meeting Elects New Board Officers, Welcomes Five Directors, and Approves FY27 Budget
The Center for Research Libraries wrapped up its annual governance cycle on May 6, 2026, with a board meeting and annual business meeting of CRL voting representatives, the body through which member institutions exercise their voice in the...