It is among the ten largest academic research library systems in the United States, and its annual budget allocates $10 million for the procurement of digital and print material.

Appointed to replace Goodwin in 1944, Lawrence Clark Powell began a series of systematic changes and acquisitions meant to increase the prestige of the UCLA library system.

Completed in 1964, the construction of the Research Library entailed carting approximately 4 million index cards and 14 miles of books around campus.

During her tenure, Ackerman oversaw an increased coordination of efforts with the libraries of all UC campuses, a necessity that came which was initially brought about by state budget problems.

[7] Under Ackerman, the UCLA Library acquired collections on many important figures, including Ralph J. Bunche, Gertrude Stein and Anaïs Nin.

Since Ackerman's retirement in 1977, UCLA has seen a steady increase in collections, facilities and staff under librarians Russell Shank (1977–1990), Gloria Werner (1990–2002), Gary E. Strong (2003–2013), Virginia Steel (2013–2023), and Athena Jackson (2024-present).