The History of the Naming
On March 16, 1965, the Board of Trustees honored Dr. Ralph Brown Draughon, Auburn University's president from 1947 to 1965, by naming the library in his honor. Dr. Draughon was a visionary leader and a driving force behind the construction of the original portion of the library, which has since become a cornerstone of academic life at Auburn. For 60 years, the Ralph Brown Draughon Library has stood as a testament to his commitment to education, research, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Let Us Champion Your Learning
Here at the Auburn Libraries, we...
Timeline
“Owing much to the past, Auburn’s mission makes its greater debt ever to the future.” –Ralph Brown Draughon
Naming of the Building
The Library was named in honor of Dr. Ralph Brown Draughon, Auburn’s president from 1947 to 1965.
Although the library was officially named in 1965, Auburn's reference library served the campus in Old Main and Mary Martin Hall, providing resources long before the current library.
Interlibrary Loan System
Auburn University is connected to a vast network of academic resources throughout the interlibrary loan system.
The interlibrary loan system allows faculty, staff, and students to request materials owned by other libraries and have them delivered to the Auburn Libraries.
First Online Databases
The Library introduced online databases, marking a new area in research accessibility and efficiency.
Library Expansion
Groundbreaking for a $21.3-million library expansion included the first parking deck on campus.
Member of the Association of Research Libraries
The Library joined the Association of Research Libraries, enhancing Auburn’s academic connections and access to an unparalled range of resources.
Wireless Library
The Library went wireless, a move that significantly improved digital resource accessibility for students and faculty.
First Digital Collection
The Library added its first digital collection, The Loveliest Village Photograph Collection, preserving Auburn's history in a new, accessible format.
Learning Commons Dedicated
The Learning Commons opened, creating a collaborative space for academic support and resource sharing.
The Learning Commons housed The Miller Writing Center, Study Partners, the Office of Information Technology Help Desk, and Library Reference Services.
Mell Classroom Building Addition Ground-breaking
The Mell Classroom Building addition provides state-of-the-art facilities for advanced teaching and learning methods.
Innovation & Research Commons (I&RC) Opens
The I&RC was launched to promote cutting-edge research and innovation. The area includes a MakerSpace, DataSpace, Adobe Creative Space, Virtual Reality Space, Tech Lending, Audio Studio, and Digital Wall.
The MakerSpace allows students to use creative technology like 3D printers, an electronics bench, a laser cutter, sewing machines, and more.
The Next 60 Years
As we look to the next 60 years, the Library will continue to be the heartbeat and keeper of Auburn University with a passion to champion more innovation for the goal to inspire learning, creativity, and scholarship.
Will You Champion the Library?
We are raising $60,000 for 60 years in honor of celebrating the 60th anniversary of the naming of Ralph Brown Draughon Library. Your contribution will directly support three key initiatives:
Tech Lending
Expanding our inventory to include Canon Rebel DSLR cameras, podcasting kits, GoPro Hero 13, 4K handheld camcorders, and other essential technology for student and faculty use.
MakerSpace
Upgrading equipment, technology, and supplies to foster creativity and hands-on learning.
Popular Reading Collection
Ensuring the growth and maintenance of our Popular Reading Collection for the enjoyment and enrichment of our community.