Books stand silently waiting. We are in front of the Fachbereichsbibliothek Österreichische Geschichtsforschung. This library is dedicated to Austrian historical research. It holds a wealth of knowledge.
Since January 1, 2016, the Fachbereichsbibliothek Österreichische Geschichtsforschung is a specialized branch. It belongs to the University Library. The book collection, up to December 31, 2015, and the collections are owned by the federal government.
The library’s holdings support the teaching and research. They focus on the tasks of the Institute. These include source editions mainly for medieval history. Also included are historical auxiliary sciences with a focus on diplomatics, legal, constitutional, and church history, and Austriaca. Over 200 international and Austrian historical journals are constantly acquired. They are obtained through purchase or exchange.
The Fachbereichsbibliothek Österreichische Geschichtsforschung is more than just books. It holds significant collections. These include the Institute’s archives. You will find correspondence and estates here. There are over 300 original documents dating from the 10th to 19th centuries. Many come from the archive of Vienna’s former Augustinian Hermit Monastery. The library also boasts a collection of seal casts. Also available are panels and individual images. These serve for palaeographic and diplomatic studies.
The collection holdings of the Institute for Austrian Historical Research include the Institute’s files dating back to 1854. These contain examination records of members since the first Institute course that started in 1855. You’ll also find files from the Commission for Modern Austrian History. The files of the Regesta Habsburgica and the Regesta Imperii are stored here.
The library also holds estates and manuscripts. These belonged to Johann Friedrich Böhmer and Alexander Budinsky. Also included are Heinrich Fichtenau and Julius von Ficker. Karl Foltz and Paul Heigl are also part of the collection. You can also find materials from Wilhelm von Hartel and Hans Hirsch. Alfons Huber and Ferdinand Kaltenbrunner are present. Also Wilfried Krallert, August Loehr, and Eduard Melly. Don’t forget Oskar Mitis and Engelbert Mühlbacher. The library preserves items from Emil von Ottenthal and Matthias Pangerl. Oswald Redlich and Eduard Richter are featured. Vinzenz Samanek and Theodor von Sickel are included. Finally, there is Karl Uhlirz.
The library is located at Universitatsring 1. It is in the first district of Vienna. You can reach them by phone or email. Contact Paul Herold or Gerhard Lindauer for assistance.
Note that some monographs and journals are stored in the University Library depot since December 4, 2019. These can still be ordered. But allow up to one week for delivery. The Fachbereichsbibliothek Österreichische Geschichtsforschung is a treasure. It is a place for scholars and anyone interested in Austria’s past.