KNOWLEDGE AND HERITAGE

a study of the 16th century collection of the Joanina Library at the University of Coimbra

Abstract

The main objective of this research is to examine the 16^th-century bibliographic collection of the Joanina Library. Specifically, the aim is to analyse the collection through the meta-information recorded in the information access tools, with a view to understanding the organisation of knowledge. A mixed exploratory methodological approach was adopted, combining quantitative and qualitative research. Through quantitative analysis, fundamental bibliographic data are studied, such as authors, subject areas (classification), language, date of publication, and place of printing. The qualitative part presents the main physical characteristics of the Old Book. The results have allowed for a deeper understanding of the aforementioned collection, both in terms of its historical formation and its evolution. The research carried out revealed how the University of Coimbra followed and reflected the scientific progress of the time, with the 16^th-century Old Book being essential for the study and research of the various disciplines taught at the institution to this day.