About the Collection

The History and Historical Documentation Library contains approximately 150,000 open-shelf volumes, all catalogued and searchable in the University Library Catalogue. Its collection spans from the Early Middle Ages to the present day.

Each section of the library includes a dedicated reference area (bibliographies, directories, inventories, and document collections). The library ensures broad coverage of historical research across European and non-European countries. A substantial section is dedicated to the history of Christianity and religions.

A key area is Italian local history, particularly the history of the former Duchy of Milan. Equally important is the extensive international relations section.

The library also houses the holdings of the Istituto di Archivistica, Biblioteconomia, Paleografia e Diplomatica (Institute of Archival Science, Library Science, Palaeography, and Diplomatics), which has been incorporated into the Department of Historical Studies.

Noteworthy sections include history of philosophical, political, and social thought; history of political and administrative institutions; theory and history of historiography; and women’s history.

A recently introduced collection focuses on the history of fashion, visual culture, and consumerism.

Over the years, the library has also acquired various private collections, enriching its resources across multiple historical fields.

Additionally, the library hosts and provides access to the holdings of the Centro per gli Studi di Politica Estera e Opinione Pubblica (Centre for Studies on Foreign Policy and Public Opinion) and the Centro Interdipartimentale di Storia della Svizzera “Bruno Caizzi” (Interdepartmental Centre for Swiss History “Bruno Caizzi”).