Acquisitions and Holdings

The University’s extraordinary library system, among the world’s largest, grows apace. In fiscal year 2002, the collections grew by...

The University’s extraordinary library system, among the world’s largest, grows apace. In fiscal year 2002, the collections grew by nearly a quarter-million items—exclusive of additions to the holdings of microfilms (5.5 million), manuscripts (many millions), visual items (more than 5 million), maps (500,000), sound recordings (65,000), and thousands of shelf-feet of ephemera.

Chart by Stephen Anderson   

Most popular

Meet Harvard’s 2026 Student Commencement Speakers

Two undergraduates and a Ph.D. candidate will address the graduating class on May 28.

Mindfulness—the unconventional research of psychologist Ellen Langer

Psychologist Ellen Langer's unconventional research. Plus, read about applying mindfulness techniques to eating.

Walter Isaacson on Microsoft's founder Bill Gates at Harvard

Walter Isaacson on "complete rejectionist" Bill Gates at Harvard College—and the birth of personal-computer software

Explore More From Current Issue

Mercy Otis Warren in period attire writes at a desk by candlelight, surrounded by books.

The Woman Who Penned the Case for War

Mercy Otis Warren’s poetry and plays incited the Patriot movement.

A woman with long hair leans on a table, looking out a large window with rain-streaked glass.

A Harvard Economist Probes the Affordable Housing Crisis

From understanding gender pay gaps to the housing crisis, Rebecca Diamond’s research aims to improve lives.

Portrait of a man with white hair, wearing a black coat, arms crossed, thoughtful expression.

The Framer Who Refused to Sign the Constitution

Harvard’s Elbridge Gerry helped draft the U.S. Constitution, but worried it might create a new monarch.