Geography

The library’s collection on the broad scope of the field of Geography covers all areas of geographical research, and consists of contemporary as well as historical literature. The library's origins can be traced back to the foundation of the Geographical Institute in 1887. In the following years, the collection had a chance to grow due to acquisitions in accordance with the research and teaching needs of the university. Further contributions were donated from scientists of that period. Particularly significant was the donation of the documents and books of the late Professor Ferdinand Richthofens (1833-1905). Another addition ensued, when the private collection of Professor Albrecht Pencks (1858-1945) was obtained in the 30s of the 20th century. The procuring of maps always was - and currently still is - supervised by the institute.

A wide range of the current literature is also available as an electronic resource, and in part exclusively so. Members of Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin can access these resources (i.e. e-books, e-journals, and databases) via VPN, regardless of location. For further information on where to find relevant literature on-site, see Subject Holdings.

For information on how to get started on your research, please refer to our “Research Guide Geography” (pdf).

Textbook collection

Geography textbook collection