Campus Life
University Library
Fant LibraryJohn Clayton Fant Memorial Library is located in the heart of campus, on 5th Avenue South. The library is open Sunday-Friday and is currently undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation that will significantly increase the storage space for the library's collection when it is completed in 2017. The new library will include a robotic storage and retrieval system, the only one of its kind in the state.
Fant Library has a 26,000 volume reference collection, reference databases on dozens of subjects, and is part of the university inter-library loan program, which means you have access to all of the research materials of all eight public universities in the state.
Fitness & Recreation Center
We've got plenty of activities to help you meet all your fitness goals—in beautiful, well-equipped facilities. Our Stark Recreation Center and adjoining Pohl Gym offers a 5,000-square-foot strength and conditioning room, three basketball/volleyball courts, an elevated three-lane indoor track, two racquetball courts, two aerobic studios, locker rooms, and an indoor, six-lane swimming pool.
Whether it's a group class or a program tailored just for you, there's something for every need. Choose from five program areas for exercise and overall health: aquatics, intramural sports, open recreation, special events, or overall wellness. And here's the best news: the facilities and services we provide are FREE to The W students.
Columbus: The Friendly City
Columbus welcomes you! The town, which sits on the banks of the Tombigbee River, is widely recognized for its historic character. It is home to three National Register Districts and is nationally prominent for its annual Spring Pilgrimage, an award-winning event that showcases homes dating to the 1800s.
Columbus also has a rich literary heritage, both as the birthplace of noted playwright Tennessee Williams and its connection to Pultizer-Prize winning author Eudora Welty, who attended The W. You'll be immersed in history and culture.
Nearby downtown has plenty to offer, with restaurants, boutiques, antique galleries, and the Rosenzweig Arts Center. Within walking distance of campus, downtown is a place to explore and enjoy.
The downtown Riverwalk is a great place to jog, walk, relax, or just enjoy the beauty of our natural surroundings. We think you'll love our city!
Graduate Housing
Most of The W's residence halls for graduate students are found on the National Register of Historic Places. These Victorian era buildings have been restored and renovated, to give a historic charm while offering modern amenities. Graduate students may also choose to live in on-campus apartments, offering an affordable alternative to the residence hall.