The W. Frank Steely Library is a major educational resource for NKU and the surrounding community. Originally completed in 1975, the building underwent a major expansion in 1994-95. It currently has 141,665 square feet on five floors. Called "the center jewel of the campus," Steely Library has received considerable publicity due to its unique architecture and interior design. The library's attractive loggia, located at the plaza level under the striking 45-degree sloping glass wall, and its coffee shop are a popular campus destination. Steely Library is named in honor of the first president of Northern Kentucky University, Dr. W. Frank Steely, who served as president from 1969 to 1975.
Visitors are welcome in Steely Library and may access some library resources and services. Please check with the Public Services Desk on the 3rd floor for guest access information. To learn more about access to resources, see our Circulation Policy. For driving directions, use 1 Louie B Nunn Drive, Newport, Kentucky 41076. The W. Frank Steely Library is located at the circle on Nunn Drive in the center of campus. Visitors can park in the Welcome Center Garage. To learn more see NKU Visitor Parking.
High school classes working on a specific research assignment are welcome to visit Steely Library as a group to use the library resources. We want students to get the most out of their time in the library; therefore, teachers must schedule a class with a librarian to take place before students begin individual work. Instruction will involve hands-on activities to provide students with an introduction to academic libraries and research. Topics covered in class will be related to the assignment and subject matter of the class. (Learn more about our instruction program.) Due to space limitations, we welcome groups of up to 50 students. Interested in scheduling instruction? Please email library@nku.edu at least two weeks in advance with a few possible dates. Note that we are unable to schedule visits during exam weeks or the week immediately preceding exams.
