A chalk drawing on a sidewalk has many pictures surrounding the word Oberlin. They depict a squirrel, Chinese lanterns, a bicycle, some baked goods, and a musical G clef.
The chalk art on the sidewalk along Main Street shows an artist's rendering of Oberlin’s music, businesses, eateries, and more.
Photo credit: Arisa Williams ’06

Community Resources

Since their founding in 1833, Oberlin College and the city of Oberlin have always been physically, socially, and economically intertwined. We have worked together to create a vibrant community renowned for its historic contributions to Northeast Ohio, the nation, and the world. The college is proud to be part of the Oberlin community, and encourages residents to engage with our many campus resources and events.

Our Community

Community engagement is an important part of Oberlin’s educational mission. We strive to educate, prepare, and empower students to use their academic, societal, and cultural experiences to benefit the residents of Oberlin, Lorain Country, and beyond.

Community Impact Report Our Community in Pictures

Community News

Community Mural Project Highlights Aspects of Oberlin

September 14, 2021

More than 100 town and college members picked up artists' brushes and applied their painting skills to a 32-foot mural in Carpenter Court late last month during Community Paint Day. The result is an expressive collage that the organizer of the project hopes will fill passersby with Oberlin pride.
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Community Events

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Get to Know Oberlin College

The college offers different ways for community members to explore and experience its amenities and campus facilities. Borrow an audio book, buy a gym membership, or listen to a docent at the museum.

Explore and Experience

Oberlin College Libraries

Community members have access to the college’s Mary Church Terrell Main Library. Users must be 18 and older, live or work in Lorain County, belong to Friends of the Oberlin College Libraries, or be an alum living in one of several nearby counties. Present your Oberlin Public Library card to borrow books, CDs, and more.

Browse the Libraries

illustration of book with e in middle to represent an ebook.

Oberlin College Bookstore

Your corner college bookstore serves as an academic hub for textbooks and a merchandise place for all things Oberlin: mugs, umbrellas, faculty-penned books, fleece throws, cards. Order or buy gifts, stationery, office accessories, and small electronics.

Shop the Bookstore

illustration of an open book.

Apollo Theatre

Few places offer first-run films and screenings at an affordable price: $4 ($6 after 6 p.m.). Watch in one theater, on one screen. During the academic year, view student-produced short films and documentaries. Don't forget the popcorn.

View Apollo Schedule

illustration of a movie camera.

Allen Memorial Art Museum

The Allen Memorial Art Museum (AMAM) organizes many public programs, lectures, tours, and exhibitions throughout the year—all for free. See its vast array of art, including works by Monet, Chagall, and Picasso, plus global art from Asia and Africa.

Visit the AMAM

illustration of artwork in a frame.

Arts at Oberlin

Oberlin has enriched the community and Northeast Ohio through music and art, through theater and dance, and through inquiry and intellect, enlivening and enriching the human experience.

Browse Arts at Oberlin

illustration of figure with music, book, star representing the arts.

WOBC Radio

Tune in to the student-run, freeform, commercial-free, college and community radio station, WOBC 91.5 FM. Volunteer DJs hit the airways 24/7 presenting news, talk shows, music spanning all genres, and much more.

Listen to WOBC

illustration of a radio with an antenna.

Hotel at Oberlin

The Hotel at Oberlin overlooks historical Tappan Square and is just steps from the college. It offers 70 rooms and suites, a restaurant using locally sourced fare, and 6,500-square feet of event space. It replaces the Oberlin Inn.

Visit the Hotel at Oberlin

illustration of a four-story hotel.

Service-Based Learning

Oberlin’s Bonner Center for Community-Engaged Learning, Teaching and Research connects students with service opportunities in schools, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies. Programs emphasize ongoing training and reflection to prepare students for ethical and responsible community engagement.

Explore the Bonner CenterService Programs
Community service table in a park.

Community Wellness

The college’s Shanks Health and Wellness Center welcomes community members to get ‘‘YeoFit’’ through its fitness classes that may include yoga, spinning, aquafit, TRX training, and more. We are following CDC safety guidelines to ensure everyone remains safe and healthy during the pandemic. Our wellness center has several membership levels or purchase a day pass.

Explore Wellness CenterPurchase a Membership
People seated on stationary bikes.

Our Community, Our Stories

Oberlin Publications

Oberlin's award-winning student-based and college publications tell compelling and original stories of the college, conservatory, its people, and alumni.

Oberlin’s annual Day of Service plays a big part in Orientation week. New and returning college students take part in a host of service projects to become familiar with Oberlin and how best to engage with the community. Projects bring students into local schools, libraries, parks, green spaces, small businesses, youth and senior facilities, and other agencies.

Students organizing food into boxes as part of MLK Day of Service
Photo credit: Dale Preston ’83

Additional Resources