Dale Library on Weights and Measures, 1325-1945

Creator:

Dale, Samuel S. (Samuel Sherman), 1859- and Thomas and Fanny Dale Library of Weights and Measures . Columbia University. Rare Book and Manuscript Library

Extent:

1,968 items (The collection contains a total of 683 catalogued books as well as 102 bound volumes containing a total of 1,285 pamphlets.)

Language:

English, French, Spanish; Castilian, Dutch; Flemish, Russian, German, Swedish, Italian

Scope and content:

This library consists of books and pamphlets tracing the development of standard measures in all countries and over all periods. Samuel S. Dale presented the collection in memory of his parents Thomas and Fanny Dale in 1930.

Some materials are cataloged and others are listed here. See series description below for more information.

Catalog record:: View in CLIO
Local call number:: /repositories/2/resources/6511
Processing information:: 102 Volumes processed by Melissa Cabarcas 2/25/2026.
Separated material:: A 12th-century tally stick (INV-182a) donated by Dale was moved into the Smith Instruments collection. The item is described in this record and can be requested there: https://clio.columbia.edu/catalog/17017093

Access and use

Restrictions:: Collections located onsite.

Location of this collection:: Rare Book & Manuscript Library

RBML Home Page
6th Floor East Butler Library
535 West 114th Street
New York, NY 10027, USA
Before you visit:: Researchers interested in viewing materials in the RBML reading room must book an appointment at least 7 days in advance. To make the most of your visit, be sure to request your desired materials before booking your appointment, as researchers are limited to 5 items per day.

Contact:: rbml@library.columbia.edu

Collection