Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), collections, libraries and museums

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), collections, libraries and museums

The MIT library system consists of five subject libraries: Barker (Engineering), Dewey (Economics), Hayden (Humanities and Science), Lewis (Music) and Rotch (Art and Architecture). There are also several specialized libraries and archives. The libraries contain more than 2.9 million printed volumes, 2.4 million microforms, 49,000 print or electronic journal subscriptions, and 670 reference databases. The last decade has seen a trend of greater concentration through digital printing resources in libraries. Notable collections include the Lewis Music Library with an emphasis on music of the 20th and 21st century and electronic music, exhibitions List Visual Arts Center exhibits contemporary art and interdisciplinary Compton Gallery. MIT allocates a percentage of the budget for all new construction and renovation to commission and support its extensive collection of public art and outdoor sculpture. The MIT Museum was founded in 1971 and collects, preserves, and exhibits artifacts significant to the life and history of MIT as well as collaborating with the nearby Museum of Science.