History of Mathematics Book Launch

    Thursday, January 16, 2025 - 12:00

    The book launch of 'Mathematical Book Histories: Printing, Provenances, and Practices of Reading' took place on Friday the 22nd of November at the Russell Library, Maynooth.

    Edited by Philip Beeley (University of Oxford) and Ciarán Mac an Bhaird (Maynooth University), the book collection focusses on the unique collection of mathematical texts from across Europe which are housed in the Russell Library. The book chapters consider a broad range of topics, including insights into various aspects of early modern mathematical book production, details of how the library collection was formed, an analysis of mathematical teaching practices in Maynooth and across Europe, and what annotations, marginal observations, and diagrams etc. reveal about the people who used the books.

    An exhibition of the unique texts studied for this publication was held in the Russell Library, and a virtual tour of the these is now available.

    Speakers at the event included the editors, Dr Philip Beeley and Dr Ciarán Mac an Bhaird, Alexandra Caccamo (Special Collections and Archives Librarian), Professor Paul Moynagh (Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering), Rev. Dr. John-Paul Sheridan (St Patrick’s College), and Rev. Dr. Michael Shortall (President, St Patrick’s College).
    The book featured in Maynooth University’s ‘Spotlight on Research’ series, and also on RTÉ Brainstorm.

     

     

    Dr. Ciarán Mac an Bhaird (Maynooth University) and Dr Philip Beeley (University of Oxford) with their edited book collection.    		  
    Dr. Michael Shortall, Dr Mac an Bhaird, Dr Beeley, and Professor Moynagh at the book launch.

     

     
    Rev. Dr. Sheridan speaking about the history of Maynooth College at the book launch.
         		  
    Alexandra Caccamo speaks about the unique collections housed in the Russell Library

    Dr Beeley provides insight into the books considered in this edited collection, and discussed some of the remarkable findings.    		  
    Dr Mac an Bhaird describes the path to publication, and thanks the many people who helped the authors and editors along the way.

    A photo of the Russell Library with some of the 60 attendees at the book launch.