Harry W. Bass Business History Collection
Information
The Harry W. Bass Business History Collection began in 1955 with the purpose of collecting and preserving materials relating to the history of business and industry. The collection contains more than 22,000 books, microforms, videos and journals on a number of topics including the histories of business leaders and firms and the economic, social and political forces that influence the role of business in society. Over 100 linear feet of archives focus on the history of business in the 19th and 20th centuries.
View information about our collection materials below. For more help, visit our Bass History of Business Research Guide.
All visitors are required to follow the Harry W. Bass Business History Collection reading room policies. The policies include no food or drinks and leaving bags in the designated lockers.
Notable Initiatives
New Digital Collections Platform
The University Libraries is beta testing a new digital repository platform. The purpose of the University of Oklahoma Libraries digital collections is to provide free online public access to high-resolution digital images of OU Libraries Special Research Collections materials to enhance scholarship, teaching, and community engagement. We invite you to explore the new beta site and share your feedback to help us improve.
Research Services
Anyone can use the Harry W. Bass Business History Collection materials regardless of their university affiliation or geographic location. We recommend appointments to view collections in person, as some of our materials are stored offsite. Our staff are available for in-person, virtual, and email consultations if you need assistance with your research. Collection materials do not circulate and are made available for use in the Duane H.D. Roller Reading Room.
To view materials in person, request an appointment.
To request assistance with distance research, please contact us.
For information about viewing materials, support for research and instruction, tours, and details about sources and services, see the Research Services page.
Instruction Services
The Harry W. Bass Business History Collection curatorial team welcomes discussions with faculty about integrating primary sources from our collections into teaching and research activities.
Visit our Instruction Services page to learn more.
FAQ
Our collection is housed on site and can be viewed within the same day with the exception of a few items that may be out for conservation or catalog work. It may take time (15 or more minutes) for a request to be fulfilled. Researchers are advised to make appointments and to check the catalog for materials prior to a visit to ensure that materials are ready for viewing during their visit.