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Collection Development Manual > Libraries & Collections > Central Library > Mathematics

Mathematics

The Mathematics collection is intended to be both broad and deep. The collection focuses largely on the basics of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, trigonometry, statistics, and other mathematic topics that are taught in schools; but it also includes a significant minority of more specialized books on subjects such as number theory, vectors, matrices, and topology. Reference materials range from collections of biographies of mathematicians and works on mathematical history, to encyclopedias, dictionaries, and handbooks of formulas and functions.

The library attempts to focus on specific areas of mathematics: arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, and trigonometry. Materials on other mathematical topics are part of the collection as well, but are purchased in smaller numbers. Mathematics general interest publishing is not always sufficient to meet the collection's needs, so the library resorts to purchasing somewhat more academic titles to satisfy the need for items in a particular mathematical subject. However, highly technical and academic works are not purchased.

This collection is widely used by elementary, middle school, high school and college students working on homework or school projects. The collection is also used by independent learners, as well as by adults who are working on math skills for employment examinations. It is also heavily used by independent learners who enjoy the more esoteric topics.

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Much of the material on chaos theory is kept with the Computer collection. At Central Library, this collection is housed in the Science & Business room. Most works on logic are part of the Philosophy collection. At Central Library, the Philosophy collection is kept in the Humanities rooms.