J. Willard Marriott Library photograph collection, 1974-2009

The J. Willard Marriott Library was built in 1968 in order to replace the ageing George Thomas Library, which had become inadequate during the period of post-war expansion at the University of Utah. However, it soon became clear that space for the library's growing collection would continue to be a major problem. Some intermediate measures, such as library reorganization and the establishment of branch libraries, were considered, but the Marriott eventually remedied the space problem by a major expansion during the 1990's and by obtaining the Guardsman Way remote storage facility.

Another major issue which the Marriott Library faced during this period was the increasing use of computer technology in the library profession. The implementation of OCLC, the increasing use of CD-ROM technology, the replacement of the card catalog with integrated networking systems such as NOTIS, and the establishment of the Marriott Library Microcomputer Center for patron use were all innovations of the 1970's, 1980's, and the 1990's.