Book excerpt: The academic library plays a crucial role in the higher education system. It is the heart of the institution and serves as the primary source of information and knowledge for students, faculty, and staff. The library is a place where people come together to learn, research, and grow. It provides access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, databases, and other materials, as well as a variety of services, such as research assistance, instruction, and technology support. The academic library's primary mission is to support the teaching, learning, and research needs of the institution. It does this by providing access to a wide range of information resources and services, such as books, journals, databases, and other materials, as well as research assistance, instruction, and technology support. The library also plays a key role in developing and delivering information literacy instruction, which helps students to become proficient in finding, evaluating, and using information effectively.