Collections A-Z
In addition to general collections and online subscription databases, journals, and ebooks, the Library holds more than 500 named collections which are distinguished by their specialized subject matter, age, uniqueness, or value. Most of the listed collections on this page are located in the John Hay Library. To locate digitized collections, see the list available at the Center for Digital Scholarship site and search the Brown Digital Repository.
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Lester Frank Ward collection, 1860-1913
Ward, a Brown faculty member recognized today as one of the founders of the field of sociology, bequeathed his library and personal papers to Brown, and they arrived at the John Hay Library in 1914. The 1,200 bound volumes and pamphlets plus approximately 11,000 letters and manuscripts represent Ward's interests in botany, paleobotany, geology, philosophy and sociology. The two main series of Ward's papers, the correspondence and the writings, are available on microfilm.
Format(s): Books, Manuscripts, Maps, Letters
Library: John Hay
NOTE: Portions of this collection are housed off-site. Prior notice is needed for retrieval
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Access to the collection:
Online Catalog (BruKnow):
Ward Collection Microfilm
Portfolio of Maps
Ward Papers
Other Online Access:
RIAMCO: Guide to the Lester Frank Ward papers
In-house Access to the Collection:
Typescript Inventory