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Become a Friend of the Doherty Library
Join the Friends of Doherty Library and help sustain a legacy of knowledge, community, and discovery. Learn more about the Friends of the Library including its history, purpose and membership benefits below!
Support the future of Doherty Library.
Our Story
History
In 1954, students at the University of St. Thomas demonstrated their commitment to learning and scholarship in a remarkable way—by forming a human chain to move the University library collection from its original home in the historic Link-Lee Mansion.
Since 1972, the collection has been housed in the Robert Pace and Ada Mary Doherty Library, located on the University’s academic mall. This central location reflects the Library’s enduring role at the heart of intellectual life on campus.
Today, Doherty Library serves as a major academic resource, offering:
More than 250,000 books
- Access to approximately 80,000 periodical titles
- A wide range of electronic databases
The Library continues to support students, faculty, and the greater Houston community.
Our Mission
Purpose
As the University of St. Thomas evolves to meet the demands of the 21st century, Doherty Library must continue to grow alongside it.
By joining the Friends of Doherty Library (FOL), you become part of that growth. Members play a vital role in strengthening the Library through:
- Volunteer time
- Financial contributions
- In-kind support
FOL also helps maintain the Library as a vibrant space for shared intellectual curiosity and a passion for literature.
We invite you to join us in supporting the future of Doherty Library.
Give. Connect. Inspire.
Membership & Giving
Every gift to the Friends of Doherty Library helps strengthen the Library’s ability to serve students, faculty, and the greater Houston community. Whether through membership, tribute gifts, or other contributions, your generosity supports resources, programs, and spaces that inspire learning, discovery, and lifelong education.
Membership Benefits
As a Friend of Doherty Library, you’ll enjoy:
- Free library card access (with valid government ID)
- Borrowing privileges (up to 4 books for 5 weeks)
- Access to the Lobby Computer Lab
- Use of silent study rooms and study booths
- Extended, all-day access (including late hours)
- Early entry to the annual book sale
- Invitations to exclusive lectures and book readings
- The fulfillment of supporting education and lifelong learning
Memorial & Tribute Gifts
Honor loved ones or commemorate special occasions with a meaningful tribute gift.
With a Friends of Doherty Library memorial:
- A new book is added to the collection
- A custom bookplate is placed inside
- A notification is sent to the honoree or their family
This creates a lasting legacy within the Library.
Membership Levels
One-year membership: $250 Provide leadership-level support for Doherty Library and its future.
One-year membership : $125 Help strengthen library programs, resources, and community engagement.
One-year membership : $60 Support the Library while enjoying Friends of Doherty Library membership benefits.
Six-month membership: $30 A flexible option to become a Friend and support the Library.