MLibrary Mathematics Collection

The University of Michigan Science Library has one of the largest and most comprehensive mathematics collections in the country. The historical collection is also particularly noteworthy, and many rare mathematics books are held in UM Library’s Special Collections.

The University of Michigan Science Library has one of the largest and most comprehensive mathematics collections in the country. Current acquisitions especially concentrate on: mathematical analysis, number theory, mathematical statistics and probability, advanced algebra including group theory, modern geometry, algebraic geometry and topology, and the history of mathematics. We also maintain a working collection in applied mathematics, actuarial mathematics, recreational mathematics and works on mathematics education. The historical collection is also particularly noteworthy, and many rare mathematics books are held in UM Library’s Special Collections.

Building the Mathematics Collection at UM--a few historical notes:

• During UM’s first years, an early European book buying trip was made by Professor Asa Gray resulting in the acquisition of 3,700 books; of these, a small group were mathematics books. 
• The records show that in 1881 Professor Olney addressed the Board of Regents on the needs of the Department of Mathematics, recommending the purchase of additional textbooks beyond those purchased by Gray.
• Noteworthy contributions were made by Professor Alexander Ziwet, and engineering department faculty member from 1898 to 1925. Ziwet donated several personal copies, many of which still reside in the collection and bear his signature today.
• Professor Louis Karpinski, a historian of mathematics and mathematics faculty member from 1904 to 1948, made several book buying trips to Europe on behalf of the library, adding especially to the rare mathematics book collection.
• Mathematics Review moved their office to Ann Arbor in 1964. A long-standing relationship between UM and MR has mutually benefitted both organizations, particularly with regard to the integrity of online resources maintained by each entity.
• Hathitrust digital library (over 6000 math books in public view now)