Library Newsletter #73

Welcome to the Library Newsletter, a monthly update sent to all UM staff and students. We will send you the latest notices issued by the UM Library, its developments, services, resources, workshops and more.

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Opening hours

During the academic year (1 October 2026 till 15 June 2027), the Main Library will open as follows:

Monday to Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
Saturday: 09:00 - 12:15
Sundays & Public Holidays: Closed

For further information on the opening hours of Library departments, branch libraries and depositories, visit their website.

Training workshops

They offer a variety of workshops, including:

• Library tours,
• Discover the Archives tours, 
• HyDi - Using our online catalogue to access online resources, dissertations and your Library Account,
• RefWorks [EndNote Fusion] - Using referencing software,
• Developing various information literacy skills,
• One-to-one support for systematic and scoping reviews.

Book now.

Library Book Return Box

A new Book Return Box has been installed near the entrance to the UM Main Library. This facility allows registered patrons to return loaned Library books outside official opening hours, offering a quick and convenient option for after-hours returns.

Find out more.

Maltese Catacombs: A World Below – Exhibition

The exhibition brings together and presents to the public a selection of bibliographic materials relating to the Christian catacombs, held in the collections of the Library of the University of Malta. These materials are complemented by reproductions of lesser-known archival documents on the same subject, held in Malta and Rome. The collection offers a documentary journey through the history of the discovery and study of Malta’s Christian catacombs, highlighting their significance as a crossroads for scholars and researchers from across the Mediterranean over the centuries.

The exhibition will be on display at the Main Library until 30 November.

Laws and Theology Library: books donation

Rev. Prof. Charló Camilleri and Dr Glen Attard, members of the Faculty of Theology, have made a significant contribution to the Laws and Theology Library through a generous donation of a substantial collection of books. Comprising over 250 volumes, the donation focuses primarily on Spiritual Theology, Mysticism, History of Spirituality, Carmelite Spirituality, Family Spirituality and related fields. 

The donated books are currently being catalogued to be integrated into the existing collection at the Laws and Theology Library. This valuable addition will further enrich the Library’s academic resources, supporting the teaching, learning and research needs of students and scholars.

The Library expresses heartfelt gratitude to Rev. Prof. Camilleri and Dr Attard for their thoughtful contribution, which will undoubtedly benefit the University community for years to come.

What's new in Melitensia 

Melitensia's book of the month – September 2026 

Red List of Endangered Crafts, written and published by the Malta Crafts Foundation.

This book documents traditional Maltese crafts at risk of disappearing, with the aim of supporting their safeguarding. As a research report, it also provides insight into their current state. Inspired by international best practices, the publication evaluates a range of local artisanal skills and classifies them according to their level of vulnerability: “extinct,” including għonnella tailoring and traditional kenur making; “critically endangered,” such as Għarb knife making and tberfil signwriting; “endangered,” including Maltese patterned tile making and wrought-iron smithing; and “currently viable,” such as flower arranging and candle making.

Based on input from local artisans, the research assesses the viability of each craft and identifies the challenges affecting its continuity. It also supports funding, education, and apprenticeship initiatives aimed at preserving Malta’s traditional craft heritage.

The list of new Melitensia acquisitions is available online.