A 2013 student survey about the library highlighted the need for more access to food, natural light, security, and power or USB ports for laptops, phones, and other electronic devices used by students.

In 1929, Thomas B. Lockwood (1873–1947) donated $500,000 to the University of Buffalo for the construction of a library building.

Green and built in classic Georgian architectural style, the building was an elegant, four-story structure located at the heart of the South Campus.

In addition to providing funds for the building, Lockwood also donated his personal collection of rare books.

On June 16th, 2023, the library system announced that it received $10 million in funding towards building a James Joyce museum.