History of Science

Information about the Holdings

The breadth of subjects-1 maintained by the university library ensures the availability of current literature on the history of scientific disciplines and institutions. Additionally, journals and monographs on History of Science are purchased and stocked through deliberate effort. Special consideration is given to the research focus of the chair of History of Science.

A great basis of sources for History of Science can be found in the comprehensive historical holdings of the university library since 1830. These holdings mirror the history of science in Berlin, the work accomplished by the scholars living here, as well as the development of the different university disciplines.

A special importance is placed on the stock pertaining to the former branch library of History of Science. A large share of these holdings is now located in the open access shelving of the Research Reading Room (6. EG Grimm-Zentrum), which contains a high amount of rare specialist literature, especially on medicine.

historical illustration of a chemical experiment set-up

Johann Bartholomä Trommsdorf: Lehrbuch
der pharmacavtischen Experimentalchemie. Altona 1796

photo: Historical Collection (Dr. Yong-Mi Rauch)

On top of print media, the library also purchases electronic resources (e-books, e-journals, databases), which members of Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin can access anywhere via Open VPN.

More information can be found at Subject Holdings.

Online Resources

Top Databases
Top Journals