Bennett D. Katz Library - University of Maine at Augusta

The Bennett D. Katz Library at The University of Maine at Augusta was designed to serve as a centerpiece for learning support for UMA students. The original building was completed in 1974. A major addition in 1988 included new interactive television studios and the statewide ITV system control center, as well as a new wing of the library. The facility now also includes a state-of-the-art recording studio associated with UMA’s premier jazz and contemporary music program.

In 1999, the library was officially dedicated and named in honor of Bennett D. Katz, a legislator, local businessman, and founding father of The University of Maine at Augusta. His contributions to the development of the University, while a state senator, Chair of the Joint Legislative Education Committee, and UM System Trustee, served as the basis for this decision.

The Katz Library collection focuses on the academic programs offered by UMA and has become a very effective tool for study and research for the UMA community. The collection is developed in concert with the UMA faculty. As a result, it represents the research and study needs of students and their academic programs.

UMA is a partner in URSUS, the shared online catalog of the University of Maine System. URSUS allows users to search the collections of UM System libraries, as well as three other libraries, and to request materials from these libraries. In recent years, development of online databases and full-text electronic collections has enhanced UMA’s ability to provide high quality online library services to UMA students on-campus and those taking courses at a distance from the campus.

The Katz Library houses the Maine Women’s Hall of Fame, which comprises over 10 years worth of photographs and commendations recognizing Maine women whose accomplishments have had a significant statewide impact and who have improved the lives of women in Maine. Each March during Women’s History Month, the Maine Women’s Hall of Fame induction ceremony is held in the new wing of the library. The Terry Plunkett Maine Writers Collection, also housed at the Katz Library, was dedicated shortly after Professor Plunkett’s death in 1998.

The Katz Library building is noted for its scenic views and striking architecture, with angular rooflines and large expanses of windows providing natural light. The library provides display space for student and faculty artwork representing the outstanding UMA art program.

The library is located on the Augusta campus of UMA, just to the east of Jewett Hall, and is open evenings and weekends while classes are in session. UMA is a community library and open to the public.