The History of Science Collections document the published history of the sciences (including medicine) through primary sources, secondary sources, and reference works. The Collections began as a gift from Everette Lee DeGolyer (1886-1956), a geophysicist and book collector, who encouraged the University to establish both the Collections and a history of science academic program. In 1954, Duane H. D. Roller became the first Curator and first history of science faculty member. Over a period of almost four decades, Dr. Roller developed the collections, did extensive fund raising, and helped establish a separate History of Science Department. The purposes of the Collections are to identify, collect, and preserve the published record of the history of science, and also to provide access for teaching and scholarship. SERVICES: reference (in person, by telephone, fax, mail, or e-mail), photographic and (limited) photocopying services, exhibits, tours. Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and by appointment.

The 90,000 volumes include books and periodicals from incunabula through the 20th century; translations and critical editions; histories of science and specific sciences; histories of scientific institutions; textbooks, biographies, bibliographies, dictionaries, encyclopedias, and history of science and medicine journals. Rare book holdings are extensive in medicine, anatomy, and related areas. Early modern period (Renaissance through the Enlightenment) is well represented. There are substantial portrait and slide collections.