Opened in September 1975 and designed by Walter Scholer and Associates and the Perkins and Will Partnership of Chicago, the 320,000-square-foot facility is located in the geographic center of the Ball State University campus and is distinguishable for its unique, Brutalist architecture.

[6][7] On average, the library receives more than 4,500 visitors per day to access collections materials, participate in instruction sessions and consultations, and use technology resources.

On March 26, 1976, Bracken Library was formally dedicated; Stephen K. Bailey, vice president of the American Council on Education, gave the principal address at the ceremony.

In 1987, Bracken Library patrons first gained access to the university's automated card catalog and circulation system.

In 2001, films and videos on DVD first became available for checking to Bracken Library patrons, and in 2003, laptops, projectors, and digital cameras became available for borrowing.

The collaborative and interactive learning and teaching space accommodates instruction, research, and programming activities at Bracken Library.

[15] Archives & Special Collections also houses over 1,000 volumes and 25 cubic feet of manuscript material documenting the work and career of author John Steinbeck.