Mathematics

Statement of programs and library needs

The Department of Mathematics offers programs leading to B.S., M.S. and Ph.D. degrees. At the bachelor's level there is an education option, as well as a formal minor. The programs prepare students for careers in mathematics and provide skills and knowledge requisite for work in engineering, computer science, economics, and the natural sciences.

Areas of research expertise and interests as listed in the department profile include the following.

• Algebra - research in the theory of groups, rings and algebras, Lie theory, semigroups, homological algebras and the development of computer algorithms.
• Analysis - includes research in complex function theory, functional analysis, harmonic analysis, operator theory, index theory, the theory of C*-algebras, approximation theory, interpolation theory and the theory of special functions.
• Control theory - development of theory and algorithms for the stabilization and control of structures.
• Differential Equations - includes research in ordinary differential equations, functional differential equations, partial differential equations and stochastic differential equations. Much of the research in partial differential equations is related to the areas of continuum mechanics, fluid dynamics and inverse problems. Research in this area encompasses both analysis and the development of theory as well as the development of numerical algorithms.
• Integral Equations - development of the theory of integral equations with< particular application to the behavior of viscoelastic materials.
• Numerical Analysis - includes the development and analysis of finite element methods, spectral estimation theory and large-scale simulations.
• Probability Theory - research in the theory of stochastic processes and applications.

Additional areas include: dynamics, ergodic theory and fractal structures; geometry (including hyperbolic geometry); graph theory and combinatorics; history of mathematics; mathematical crystallography; mathematical modelling; mathematical physics; mathematics education; number theory; representation theory; systems theory; topology; and waveguide analysis.

The Mathematics Department is formally associated with the following interdisciplinary programs: Interdisciplinary Center for Applied Mathematics (ICAM); Mathematics Education joint program (Mathematics and Education); and Mathematical Physics joint graduate program (Mathematics - Physics). Closely related to this program is the Center for Transport Theory and Mathematical Physics (CTTMP).

In addition to these programs Mathematics faculty are also members of other interdisciplinary programs, such as the Fiber and Electro-Optics Research Center, the Center for Composite Materials and Structures, and the Center for Stochastic Processes in Science and Engineering. The department has strong crossovers to other disciplines, such as computer science, statistics, mathematical biology, chemistry, economics, geology, engineering (aerospace, electrical, mechanical, engineering science and mechanics), physics, education, and history. This collaboration is reflected in jointly funded research projects and research publications.

I. Collection areas

A. Area: Mathematics

 

B. Classes and Levels

QA 8-10       Mathematical Logic              Research
QA 21-35      History of Mathematics          Study
QA 36-43      General Works                   Minimal
QA 47-59      Tables  			      Basic
QA 93-141     Popular Works and Elementary    Minimal
QA 150-271    Algebra 			      Research
QA 281-299    Numerical Analysis              Research
QA 300-433    Analysis			      Research
QA 440-699    Geometry and Topology           Research
QC 20         Mathematical Physics            Research

C. Chronology

Emphasis is on the acquisition of current imprints, however, classic and other retrospective materials remain very relevant in mathematics.

D. Geographic Guidelines

None.

E. Language

English is the primary language of the collection. Works in French, German, Italian, and Russian are selectively purchased with English translations preferred.

F. Treatment

Strong emphasis is on materials of a scholarly nature. Lower level textbooks are not routinely bought except to maintain a well-rounded undergraduate collection. Upper level and graduate level texts are purchased if approved by the Mathematics Department. Conference publications are selectively purchased. Translations are not routinely purchased. Specific requests from faculty members are always honored. The department takes a very active part in the selection of materials so as to maintain a strong research collection.

G. Formats

Primarily print for monographs and most journals, though electronic full-text is also of growing importance for journals. Bibliographic databases are available through the Internet. Microforms of some key journals are maintained. Videos and CD-ROM products are purchased only upon request.

H. Multiple copies

Multiple copies are purchased at the request of a faculty member.

II. Acquisition Strategy

Materials are selected by the bibliographer for mathematics in conjunction with input from the Mathematics Department. High priority is given to faculty requests. The library receives a substantial number of mathematics journals including those from the American Mathematical Society and the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics. A large number of standing orders for leading series are also maintained. Gifts are received only occasionally and are judged on whether they already duplicate holdings in the library or whether they will add value to the collection. Since mathematical tools are used heavily by other disciplines, this is considered in making selections.

III. Collection Notes

Subscriptions for new journals and standing orders are generally instigated by the Mathematics Department and are subject to the serials review process. Due to the lack of funds, selection has to be carefully evaluated.

Revised 11/2000