What's Inside John Hay Library? Research Guide

The John Hay Library, located on the campus of Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, is a renowned research library and repository of rare books, manuscripts, and special collections. As one of the oldest and most respected libraries in the United States, the John Hay Library is a treasure trove of historical and cultural significance, offering a wealth of resources for scholars, researchers, and students alike. In this research guide, we will delve into the vast collections and services offered by the John Hay Library, exploring its rich history, notable holdings, and cutting-edge facilities.

History of the John Hay Library

The John Hay Library was established in 1901, thanks to a generous bequest from John Hay, a distinguished American diplomat, historian, and statesman. Hay, who served as Secretary of State under Presidents William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt, was a Brown University alumnus and a passionate collector of rare books and manuscripts. His gift of over 4,000 volumes, including many rare and valuable items, formed the nucleus of the library’s collection, which has since grown to encompass over 100,000 volumes and numerous other materials.

Notable Holdings

The John Hay Library is home to an impressive array of rare and significant materials, including:

• Rare books: The library’s rare book collection includes over 20,000 volumes, spanning from the 15th to the 20th centuries, with notable holdings in literature, history, philosophy, and science.
• Manuscripts: The library’s manuscript collection comprises over 10,000 items, including letters, diaries, and other documents from prominent historical figures, such as Abraham Lincoln, Mark Twain, and H.P. Lovecraft.
• Special collections: The library’s special collections include a wide range of materials, such as photographs, prints, posters, and other visual materials, as well as extensive holdings in archival materials, including the university’s own historical records.

Services and Facilities

The John Hay Library offers a variety of services and facilities to support research and scholarship, including:

Reading rooms: The library’s reading rooms provide a quiet and comfortable environment for researchers to study and consult materials, with access to specialized equipment, such as microfilm readers and digital scanners.

Reference services: The library’s reference staff is available to provide research assistance, answer questions, and help navigate the library’s collections and resources.

Digital scholarship: The library offers a range of digital tools and services, including digitization, data analysis, and digital publishing, to support innovative research and scholarship.

Access and Outreach

The John Hay Library is committed to providing access to its collections and services to a wide range of users, including Brown University students, faculty, and staff, as well as visiting researchers and scholars. The library offers a variety of outreach and engagement programs, including exhibitions, lectures, and workshops, to promote the use and appreciation of its collections and to foster a sense of community among researchers and scholars.

In addition to its physical holdings, the John Hay Library also provides access to a range of digital resources, including online catalogs, databases, and digital collections, to support research and scholarship from anywhere in the world.