Storia dei fondi
The development of the Library was based, in addition to the material from the compulsory repository of printed books, on a number of substantial holdings that shaped its physiognomy and are presented briefly in this section of the website.
At first, acquisitions were selected with the idea of expanding the Library’s expertise by reflecting the encyclopedic ideal that characterized the late 18th century. From the end of the 18th century to the present, the Library has continued to enrich its holdings with new acquired or donated holdings aimed at maintaining the existing holdings and the subjects in which the Library wishes to specialize.
The description of the collections in the Library turns out to be the simplest system for understanding the characteristics of its holdings.
At present, only some fonds have maintained a topographical identity; others, however, have long since been dismembered in accordance with an organized placement according to logical or functional criteria.
More in-depth studies of the history of the Library and its holdings can be found among its publications.
Useful tips
Braidense Heritage
From the end of the 18th century to the present, the Library has continued to enrich its holdings with new funds purchased or donated, aimed at maintaining the existing holdings and the subjects in which the Library wants to specialize.
Fondo Manzoniano
250 manoscritti, 550 volumi della biblioteca del Manzoni di cui 200 postillati, circa 5.000 pezzi di carteggio, 1.000 volumi di opere del Manzoni, 1.000 volumi di critica e 1.800 pezzi collocati in miscellanea.
Library of Haller
La Biblioteca di Albrecht von Haller, Berna 1708-1777, professore di anatomia, chirurgia e botanica all'Università di Gottinga, è una pregevole raccolta di testi, in massima parte scientifici.
Photografical collection Emilio Sommariva
The Emilio Sommariva Archive collects the entire archives of the photography studio and related paper records from 1904 to 1973.
Collection Correnti
Attualmente comprende buona parte della biblioteca originaria, con una consistenza di circa 2000 volumi e oltre 10000 opuscoli.