Subject strengths: Mathematics, Science

The Merz Collection is the mathematical library of John Theodore Merz (1840-1922), an electrical engineer. Merz also had an interest in philosophy, and the collection also includes books amassed by him during the writing of his work The History of European Thought in the Nineteenth Century. These 4000 volumes are strongest in Mathematics and the History of European Thought, but also include notable works on science, European history and German Literature.

A particular highlight is An investigation of the laws of thought: on which are founded the mathematical theories of logic and probabilities (1854) by George Boole, the English mathematician and philosopher, and inventor of Boolean logic, the basis of modern digital computer logic.

The collection is also of interest for its book-bindings: mostly leather or half-leather bindings by Zaehnsdorf of London.

 

Collection Name and Collection Reference Code:

Collection Name: Merz (John Theodore) Collection

Library Search Collection Ref Code: M

Date Range of Material

1528 - 1897

Type of Material

Rare book collection

Size of Collection

127 Linear Metres of shelving 

How To Order Items From This Collection

The books within this collection are described within the Newcastle University Library Search and can be ordered directly from the catalogue.

This link to the Library Search will show a list of all the items within the collection. Please note this link is available to members of the public as well as University staff and students.

You can then place your order by linking to our Request Form. 

Unable to visit our Reading Room?

If you are unable to visit our reading room, we also have a virtual reading room service and a digitisation service.