Foster Business Library | Where Learning Meets Excellence

The Foster Business Library, located at the University of Washington in Seattle, is a crucial resource for the 3,500 students, faculty, and staff of the Foster School of Business. Opened in 1997, this 21,500 square-foot facility is uniquely situated under a garden, featuring an impressive 80-foot-long skylight. Spanning two floors, the library is connected to PACCAR Hall and is adjacent to Dempsey Hall and the Bank of America Executive Education Center. As part of the university’s library system, it offers extensive resources and a conducive study environment. Foster Library is an essential hub for business knowledge and academic success.

Understanding Foster Business Library

What is Foster Business Library?

Foster Library is a premier resource center dedicated to business research and education. It is located within the Foster School of Business and is a vital hub for students, faculty, and business professionals. The primary function of Foster Library is to provide access to comprehensive business-related materials and support services. It offers many resources, including books, journals, databases, and digital content. Foster Business Library is designed to enhance the learning and research experience in business fields. The library’s strategic location makes it easily accessible to the Foster School of Business community.

Primary Function of Foster Library

Foster Library is a specialized academic library focused on business disciplines. Its primary function is to support the educational and research needs of the Foster School of Business. The library provides excellent access to a vast collection of notary business literature, including books, scholarly journals, and industry reports.

Foster Business Library also offers various research support services, such as consultation with expert librarians, research guides, and workshops.
The library’s resources are tailored to help students, faculty, and professionals stay informed and competitive.
Foster Library is critical in fostering academic and professional excellence in business.

Establishment of Foster Business Library

Foster Business Library was established to support the growing needs of the Foster School of Business. Its history dates back to the expansion of business education at the university. The library was named after significant contributions from the Foster family, who have been long-time benefactors of the school.

Since its establishment, Foster Library has continually evolved to incorporate the latest technology and resources.
Over the years, it has expanded its collections and services to meet the changing demands of business education and research.
Today, Foster Library is a testament to the commitment to excellence in business education and research. The library’s establishment and ongoing development reflect its importance as a cornerstone of the Foster School of Business.

Location, Name, History

The Foster Business Library is located below ground within the Foster School of Business complex. The main entrance is on the first floor of PACCAR Hall, with an accessible entrance on the basement level. Before a 2009 renovation, the main entrance was through the Bank of America Executive Education Center.
Named in honor of Albert O. and Evelyn W. Foster, the library reflects their significant contributions. Albert Foster, a 1928 University of Washington Business School graduate, founded the investment banking firm Foster & Marshall in 1938. Evelyn Foster graduated from the University of Washington in 1932. They were the parents of Michael G. Foster, for whom the business school is named.
The library was funded by a $3 million gift from the Foster Foundation in 1990. Construction began in March 1995, and it opened on June 23, 1997. A major renovation from 2009 to 2012 reoriented the main entrance through PACCAR Hall and expanded seating and group study spaces.

Top 5 Benefits of Using Foster Business Library

Comprehensive Access to Business Resources

Foster Business Library provides unparalleled access to a wide range of business resources. The library has everything you need for comprehensive business research, from scholarly journals and industry reports to market research databases. Using Foster Library, you can access top databases like Bloomberg, EBSCO, and ProQuest, ensuring you have the latest and most relevant information. This extensive resource access enhances your research capabilities and helps you stay ahead in your studies and projects.

Specialized Collections for In-Depth Research

One of Foster Library’s standout benefits is its specialized collections. These curated collections cover niche areas of business studies, including entrepreneurship, global business, and corporate governance. The library’s unique collections include rare books and historical business documents, providing valuable insights not easily found elsewhere. These specialized resources are perfect for advanced research and specialized projects, giving you a significant edge in your academic and professional endeavors.

Expert Research Support Services

Foster Business Library offers exceptional research support services to help you succeed. Whether you need assistance with research strategies or navigating complex databases, the library’s expert librarians are available for one-on-one consultations. The library also conducts workshops on database usage, citation management, and research methodologies. These support services ensure you can effectively utilize the library’s resources, making your research process smoother and more efficient.

Convenient Online Access

Foster Library’s convenient online access allows you to access its vast resources from anywhere. This flexibility is especially beneficial for great students and professionals with busy schedules. Whether working from home or on the go, you can easily access the library’s databases, e-books, and research guides. This remote access ensures you have the information you need when you need it, enhancing your productivity and research outcomes.

Enhanced Learning and Academic Success

Utilizing Foster Library significantly enhances your learning and academic success. The library’s comprehensive resources, specialized collections, and expert support services provide a solid foundation for your studies and research. By leveraging these benefits, you can achieve better research outcomes, produce high-quality assignments, and gain a deeper understanding of business concepts. Foster Business Library is an invaluable asset that supports your academic growth and helps you excel in your business education.

Collection of Books in Foster Business Library

Principles of Great Corporate Finance by Richard A. Brealey and Stewart C. Myers
Competitive Strategy by Michael E. Porter
The Lean Startup by Eric Ries
Good to Great by Jim Collins
The Innovator’s Dilemma by Clayton M. Christensen
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
The Psychology of Best Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini
Business Model Generation by Alexander Osterwalder and Yves Pigneur
The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham
Start with Why by Simon Sinek

Extensive Range of Business Books

The Business Library boasts an extensive collection of business books covering various topics. The library’s collection is designed to support diverse research and learning needs, from foundational textbooks on economics and management to advanced titles on strategic planning and corporate finance. The comprehensive range ensures that students and professionals can find relevant and up-to-date information for their studies, projects, and professional development.

Specialized Business Collections

The library’s specialized collections are a significant highlight. These curated collections focus on niche areas within business studies, such as entrepreneurship, international business, and ethical practices in corporate governance. These specialized sections include rare and hard-to-find books, providing unique insights and historical perspectives invaluable for in-depth research and specialized projects. The curated collections are a testament to Foster Business Library’s commitment to supporting detailed and comprehensive business studies.

Digital and E-Book Access

In addition to its physical collection, Foster Business Library offers extensive digital resources. The library’s e-book collection includes thousands of titles accessible online, allowing students and researchers to access valuable information from anywhere. The digital collection includes recent publications, classic texts, and essential reference materials. This convenient access to e-books enhances flexibility, enabling users to conduct research and complete assignments without visiting the library in person.

Updated and Relevant Content

The Business Library ensures that its collection remains current and relevant by regularly updating its holdings. The library acquires the latest editions of essential business textbooks and new publications in emerging areas of business and management. This commitment to staying up-to-date guarantees that users have access to the most recent theories, practices, and case studies, which are crucial for staying competitive in the rapidly evolving business landscape.

Reference and Research Support

The library’s collection includes many reference books and research guides. These resources provide foundational knowledge and research methodologies essential for academic success. The reference section includes encyclopedias, handbooks, and guides on various business topics. These materials are invaluable for students beginning their research, providing reliable information and guiding them toward more detailed resources.

Collaborative Learning Resources

The Business Library also supports collaborative learning by collecting case studies and group project resources. The library houses numerous case study books covering real-world HVAC business scenarios, instrumental for group discussions and practical learning. These resources enable students to engage in collaborative learning, apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Conclusion

The Business Library is a cornerstone of the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business, offering a unique underground facility with modern amenities. With its convenient location in PACCAR Hall and accessibility features, it provides an ideal study environment for students, faculty, and staff. The library’s rich history and generous funding from the Foster Foundation highlight its importance and ongoing commitment to academic excellence. Whether you’re seeking resources for business research or a quiet study spot, the Foster Business Library is a valuable asset for the UW community.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Where is the Foster Library located?

The library is below ground and has its main entrance on the first floor of PACCAR Hall at the University of Washington.

What are the opening hours of the Foster Library?

The library typically operates Monday through Friday, from morning 8 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and from morning 10 AM to 6 PM on weekends. Check the official website for any changes.

What resources are available at the Foster Business Library?

The library offers many resources, including business journals, databases, research tools, and study spaces for students and faculty.

Who can access the Foster Business Library?

Access is primarily for the Foster School of Business students, faculty, and staff, but other University of Washington members may also use the library.