History of Science Collections

View information about our collection materials below. For more help, visit our History of Science Research Guide.

• Rare Books and Primary Sources: The History of Science Collections is primarily comprised of printed books, from the 15th century through the present time. Holdings document the development of science, medicine, and technology in cultural, historical and philosophical context. Over 100,000 published volumes are supplemented by manuscript materials, artifacts, and instruments.
• Secondary Sources and Current Publications: In addition to rare books and primary source materials, the Collections comprise substantial holdings of secondary sources and materials to aid research in the study of history of science, technology, and medicine.
• Named Collections and Archives: There are many donated books and archival materials given to the History of Science Collection since its beginning in the mid-twentieth century. Some collections are legacy materials, some are part of our new collecting initiatives.

History of Geology Collecting Initiative

The History of Geology Archival Collections consist of papers and correspondence of historians of geology, and other geology materials. Initial collections are now in processing, as follows: Martin J. S. Rudwick (intellectual history of geohistory, Georges Cuvier, and Charles Lyell); Hugh S. Torrens (Mary Anning, William Smith, mineral surveyors, geology and the British Industrial Revolution); Kenneth L. Taylor (geology in the Enlightenment, French geology, and Nicolas Desmarest); Léo Laporte (George Gaylord Simpson and paleontology, Charles Darwin); Alexander Ospovat (A. G. Werner and geology in 18th-century Germany); David B. Kitts (history of paleontology, philosophy of the historical sciences, and Charles Darwin). Visit the ArchivesSpace for the History of Geology Collecting Initiative.

The History of Meteorology Archival Collections

Our immediate and strategic vision is concentrated on becoming one of the leading centers for research worldwide for the history of the atmospheric sciences. The History of Science Collections already holds remarkable print collections and archives in meteorology related to significant and real-world challenges in energy, climate change, and environmental science. Visit the ArchivesSpace for the History of Meteorology Collecting Initiative.

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.

Mellon Travel Fellowship Program

The History of Science, Technology, and Medicine Department and the History of Science Collections provide support each year to researchers through the Mellon Travel Fellowship Program. See our Fellowship Opportunities page for more information.

Contribute to the Collections

Thank you for considering a donation to the History of Science Collections. For information about the types of donations we accept and how to contribute, please visit the Contribute to the Special Research Collections page.

Anyone can use the History of Science Collections 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.

The History of Science Collections 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.