27 Facts About Harvard University Library

Harvard University Library: A Treasure Trove of Knowledge

Harvard University Library is one of the oldest and largest academic libraries in the world. It holds a wealth of information and has a fascinating history. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about this iconic institution.

Historical Significance

The library's history is rich and storied, reflecting its importance in the academic world.

1. Founded in 1638, Harvard University Library is the oldest library system in the United States.
2. John Harvard's Donation: The library began with a donation of 400 books from John Harvard, the university's namesake.
3. Widener Library: The main library, Widener Library, was established in 1915 in memory of Harry Elkins Widener, a Harvard alumnus who perished on the Titanic.
4. Gore Hall: Before Widener Library, the main library was housed in Gore Hall, which was built in 1838 and demolished in 1913.

Collection Size and Diversity

The library's collection is vast and diverse, encompassing a wide range of subjects and formats.

5. Over 20 million volumes: Harvard University Library holds more than 20 million volumes, making it one of the largest academic libraries globally.
6. Digital Collections: The library has extensive digital collections, including over 10 million digitized items.
7. Special Collections: It houses numerous special collections, such as rare books, manuscripts, and archives.
8. Languages: The collection includes materials in over 100 languages, reflecting the university's global reach.

Unique and Rare Items

Harvard University Library is home to many unique and rare items that attract scholars and researchers from around the world.

9. Gutenberg Bible: The library owns one of the few surviving copies of the Gutenberg Bible, printed in the 1450s.
10. Shakespeare First Folio: It also holds a copy of the First Folio of Shakespeare's plays, published in 1623.
11. Emily Dickinson's Manuscripts: The library has a significant collection of Emily Dickinson's original manuscripts and letters.
12. Maps and Atlases: The collection includes rare maps and atlases, such as the 1602 Chinese world map by Matteo Ricci.

Architectural Marvels

The library's buildings are architectural marvels, each with its own unique story and design.

13. Widener Library's Grand Staircase: The grand staircase in Widener Library is a stunning architectural feature, made of marble and adorned with intricate carvings.
14. Houghton Library: Built in 1942, Houghton Library is dedicated to rare books and manuscripts and features beautiful Georgian-style architecture.
15. Lamont Library: Opened in 1949, Lamont Library was the first library in the United States designed specifically for undergraduate use.
16. Pusey Library: Named after Nathan M. Pusey, Harvard's 24th president, this library houses the university archives and special collections.

Technological Advancements

Harvard University Library has embraced technology to enhance access to its vast resources.

17. HOLLIS: The Harvard Online Library Information System (HOLLIS) is an advanced catalog system that allows users to search the library's extensive collections.
18. Digital Preservation: The library has a robust digital preservation program to ensure the longevity of its digital collections.
19. Open Access: Harvard University Library supports open access initiatives, making many of its resources freely available online.
20. Virtual Reality: The library has experimented with virtual reality to create immersive experiences for users exploring its collections.

Community and Outreach

The library plays a vital role in the Harvard community and beyond, offering various programs and services.

21. Library Tours: Harvard University Library offers guided tours, providing visitors with insights into its history and collections.
22. Workshops and Events: The library hosts numerous workshops, lectures, and events to engage the academic community and the public.
23. Collaborations: It collaborates with other libraries and institutions worldwide to share resources and knowledge.
24. Student Support: The library provides extensive support services for students, including research assistance and study spaces.

Fun and Quirky Facts

Beyond its academic significance, the library has some fun and quirky aspects that add to its charm.

25. Secret Tunnels: There are rumored to be secret tunnels connecting various library buildings on campus.
26. Library Ghosts: Some believe that Widener Library is haunted by the ghost of Harry Widener, who died on the Titanic.
27. Book Conservation Lab: The library has a state-of-the-art book conservation lab where experts work to preserve and restore rare books and manuscripts.

Harvard Library's Legacy

Harvard University Library stands as a beacon of knowledge and history. With over 20 million volumes, it's one of the largest academic libraries in the world. The Widener Library, named after Harry Elkins Widener, houses rare collections and manuscripts that scholars treasure. Harvard's library system isn't just about books; it includes digital resources, special collections, and archives that span centuries. The library's commitment to preserving knowledge and making it accessible is evident in its extensive digitization projects. Students, researchers, and visitors alike find invaluable resources within its walls. Harvard Library's influence extends beyond its physical location, impacting global scholarship and research. Its rich history and vast collections make it a cornerstone of academic excellence. Whether you're a student, a researcher, or just a curious mind, Harvard University Library offers a wealth of information waiting to be explored.