Library Services, Resources, and News: Fall 2024
I'm Randy Souther, the library's liaison for Mathematics.
This page highlights recent news, as well as some of the library's services and resources available to support faculty teaching and research. It will be updated ahead of each semester, and periodically in-between.
News
August 2024
Cancellations and Withdrawals
The library has had to cut more than $50,000 from our materials budget this coming year, and larger cuts are likely next fiscal year. See our Cancellations and Withdrawals page for a partial list of cancelled databases and journals.
See Cancellations and Withdrawals
Important cancellations include:
- Link+ — book borrowing and lending service (books can still be borrowed via our Interlibrary Loan service).
- ProQuest Ebook Central — more than 250,000 academic ebook titles.
- Passport GMID — international consumer and industry market research.
- Credo InfoLit — information literacy tutorials and videos
New Information Desk in the Library
The library's Reference Desk has been closed, and reference services have been moved and combined with circulation services at the Information Desk at the entrance of the library. Reference librarians will be on-call — just ask at the Information Desk.
Selected New Books in Mathematics
Book summaries composed with AI-assistance.
Advanced Calculus for Mathematical Modeling in Engineering and Physics
Advanced Calculus for Mathematical Modeling in Engineering and Physics: With Discrete and Numerical Analogies introduces the principles and methods of advanced calculus for mathematical modeling through a balance of theory and application using a state space approach with elementary functional analysis. This framework facilitates a deeper understanding of the nature of mathematical models, and of the behavior of their solutions. The work provides a variety of advanced calculus models for mathematical, physical science, and engineering audiences, with discussions on how calculus-based models and their discrete analogies are generated. This valuable textbook offers scientific computations driven by Octave/MATLAB script.
Archimedes: Fulcrum of Science
Archimedes of Syracuse, revered by scientific giants like Galileo and Newton, was a groundbreaking mathematician and engineer in 212 BCE. Nicholas Nicastro's reimagining dispels the myth of an aloof, physically inept figure, portraying Archimedes as ambitious, competitive, and combative. This ancient polymath challenged an empire with his intellect, possessing knowledge that surpassed Europe's understanding for nearly two millennia. Nicastro presents Archimedes as the world's first truly modern scientist, a genius whose work laid the foundation for transformative discoveries centuries before his intellectual successors reshaped our understanding of the world.
Max Dehn: A Polyphonic Portrait
Max Dehn (1878-1952) was a pioneering mathematician known for his contributions to geometry and topology, and for solving one of Hilbert's famous problems. This book chronicles Dehn's life in three phases: his early career as Hilbert's student, his leadership of a mathematical community in Frankfurt, and his escape from Nazi Germany to the United States, where he settled at Black Mountain College. The collection of essays explores Dehn's mathematical influence, his travels, and his engagement with history and the arts, offering previously unpublished information about this remarkable scholar and teacher.
Explorations in the Mathematics of Data Science: The Inaugural Volume of the Center for Approximation and Mathematical Data Analytics
This edited volume reports on the recent activities of the new Center for Approximation and Mathematical Data Analytics (CAMDA) at Texas A&M University. Chapters are based on talks from CAMDA's inaugural conference - held in May 2023 - and its seminar series, as well as work performed by members of the Center. They showcase the interdisciplinary nature of data science, emphasizing its mathematical and theoretical foundations, especially those rooted in approximation theory.
Adventures in Statistics: How We Live in a World of Numbers
"Adventures in Statistics: How We Live in a World of Numbers" explores the omnipresence of statistics in daily life, from medicine to sports. Rather than using complex formulas, the book employs storytelling through popular culture references to explain statistical concepts. It demystifies medical test accuracy, financial phenomena, and more. The author demonstrates how professionals across various fields utilize statistics, making the book relevant for a wide audience seeking to understand the numerical world around them.
What's Happening in the Mathematical Sciences
The What's Happening in the Mathematical Sciences series explores recent mathematical discoveries in an accessible manner. The 2023 volume covers topics like artificial intelligence, with "Deep Learning: Part Math, Part Alchemy" examining machine learning advances. "Organizing the Chaos Inside the Brain" applies chaos theory to animal brain simulations. Pure math enthusiasts will enjoy chapters on tiling, sphere-packing, and multi-view geometry. "How to Draw an Alternate Universe" delves into non-Euclidean geometry, while "How Mathematicians Unearthed the Stubborn Secrets of Fano Varieties" explores algebraic geometry. Other topics include prime numbers without a "7" and fluid singularities, linking back to machine learning.
The Evolution of Mathematics: A Rhetorical Approach
G. Mitchell Reyes challenges the notion that mathematics equals absolute truth in his book, exploring the rhetorical aspects of mathematical discourse. By examining math's historical development from Plato to modern algorithms, Reyes demonstrates how mathematical innovation relies on rhetorical practices like analogy and metaphor. He argues that mathematics is not a static representation of hidden truths but a dynamic force shaping our reality and experience. This perspective aims to foster collaboration between mathematicians and scholars in rhetoric, sociology, and science to better understand our material world and public culture.
The Story of Proof: Logic and the History of Mathematics
"The Story of Proof" by John Stillwell explores the evolution of mathematical proof across various disciplines. From Euclid's geometry to modern mathematics, Stillwell demonstrates how proof has been crucial in generating knowledge and inspiring innovation. The book covers key areas such as algebra, calculus, number theory, non-Euclidean geometry, topology, and logic. It delves into the fundamental relationship between proof and arithmetic, revealing limitations on provable theorems and solvable problems. Stillwell's work offers a fresh perspective on the power and progress of mathematics through the lens of proof.
Illustrating Mathematics
This book is a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in illustrating mathematical concepts. Organized by materials rather than subject areas, it emphasizes the creative process, including discussions of failures. Readers can learn from others' experiences and find inspiration for their own illustrations. The book covers a wide range of mathematical topics, from prime numbers and fractals to complex dynamics and hyperbolic 3-manifolds. Each contributor explains the mathematics behind their illustration in an accessible manner, allowing readers to appreciate both the visual beauty and the underlying concepts. The diverse content ensures that every reader can find a mathematical topic that resonates with them.
Mathematical Intelligence: A Story of Human Superiority over Machines
In "Mathematical Intelligence," Junaid Mubeen challenges the notion that machines will surpass human intelligence. He argues that mathematics, often misunderstood and poorly taught, gives humans a creative edge over computers. Mubeen identifies seven areas where human mathematical abilities excel, including our innate sense of numerical approximation, capacity for abstraction and language, logical reasoning skills, and ability to question and imagine beyond conventional rules. While computers excel at calculations and pattern recognition, Mubeen contends that human mathematical thinking offers a unique blend of creativity, reasoning, and intuition that machines cannot replicate, positioning mathematics as a crucial tool for maintaining our intellectual advantage in the age of artificial intelligence.
Language and the Rise of the Algorithm
"Language and the Rise of the Algorithm" explores the intertwined histories of mathematics, computer science, and linguistics, focusing on the challenge of balancing computational rules with human comprehension. Jeffrey M. Binder examines four historical attempts at universal computation: Leibniz's calculus ratiocinator, Condorcet's universal algebra, Boole's logic system, and the ALGOL programming language. These examples highlight the recurring entanglement of symbolic computation with debates on communication. The book argues that as machine learning blurs the line between technical and everyday language, it challenges the traditional boundary between algorithmic processes and human communication, revealing the profound implications of this convergence.
Probably Overthinking It: How to Use Data to Answer Questions, Avoid Statistical Traps, and Make Better Decisions
"Probably Overthinking It" by Allen B. Downey is a concise guide to statistical thinking for everyone. Using real-world examples from various fields, Downey illustrates how data can improve decision-making and highlights common pitfalls in statistical interpretation. The book emphasizes the importance of correct data analysis in areas such as healthcare, policy-making, and social justice. Through data visualizations and accessible explanations, Downey builds readers' understanding of statistical concepts, enabling them to recognize errors in their own thinking and media reports. This book offers valuable insights for both statistics novices and those seeking to refresh their knowledge.
Wu Wenjun: A Biography in Pictures
This book depicts the fascinating life story of Wu Wenjun, a renowned mathematician who made significant contribution in the field of topology, ancient Chinese mathematics, and mathematics mechanization. He was a recipient of the Highest Science and Technology Award, the highest scientific award in China, as well as the Shaw Prize in Mathematics.Through vivid illustrations and eloquent writing, this book recounts rarely known anecdotes and significant events from Wu Wenjun's life through his childhood, education, and scientific career, offering insights into his life values.
The SAGE Encyclopedia of Theory in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
This encyclopedia explores the role of theories in STEM disciplines, examining how they shape understanding and learning in these fields. It delves into the construction, evolution, and significance of theories, highlighting their importance in unlocking the mysteries of the world. The work features over 200 expert-authored articles, organized thematically with a Reader's Guide. Each entry includes further readings, cross-references, and a Resource Guide listing key books, journals, associations, and websites. This comprehensive reference provides valuable insights into the theoretical foundations of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
The Art of More: How Mathematics Created Civilization
"The Art of More" by Michael Brooks explores the profound impact of mathematics on human civilization throughout history. From ancient tax collectors to modern astronomers, the book showcases how mathematical innovations have driven human progress. Brooks argues that mathematics was as crucial to human development as the discovery of fire, enabling advancements in trade, astronomy, architecture, and technology. The narrative spans millennia, featuring diverse characters from Egyptian priests to eccentric professors, illustrating how mathematical breakthroughs have consistently propelled humanity forward and shaped our understanding of the world.
Self-Similar and Self-Affine Sets and Measures
This book explores fractals, focusing on self-similar and self-affine sets. It covers introductory concepts and advanced topics, including overlapping self-similar sets and measures, and self-affine systems. The text highlights recent breakthroughs in fractal geometry, often presenting simplified cases of complex concepts. Aimed at mathematicians and students interested in fractal geometry, the book is suitable for graduate and advanced undergraduate courses. It provides a comprehensive overview of this field, from basic definitions to cutting-edge research topics, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced researchers in fractal geometry.
A Brief History of Mathematics: A Promenade Through the Civilizations of Our World
This book offers a unique perspective on the history of mathematics across cultures and civilizations. Divided into eight chronological chapters, it explores mathematical developments from ancient Egypt and Greece to China, India, and the Arab world, up to the 20th century. The author examines the interplay between mathematics and cultural elements, including modern art, providing insights into the discipline's evolution and its impact on society. With engaging visuals and accessible writing, this translated work appeals to both general readers with a basic mathematical background and researchers in mathematics and humanities.
The Lost Scientists of World War II
This book tells the stories of scientists from Germany and other European countries who vanished during World War II. These erudite scholars contributed to diverse scientific fields and were associated with some of the world's leading universities and research institutions. Despite their proficiency, they all sought help from agencies to relocate to the UK in the 1930s, but were unable to secure the necessary assistance.The Lost Scientists of World War II explores the fascinating narratives of thirty of these scientific refugees, delving into the reasons behind the unavailability of aid and presenting fresh insights into the tragic fates or astounding survival experiences of these individuals.
Weapons of Math Destruction
In "Weapons of Math Destruction," Cathy O'Neil warns about the pervasive use of mathematical models in decision-making processes. These algorithms, often opaque and unregulated, can reinforce discrimination and widen societal gaps. O'Neil argues that instead of promoting fairness, these models can trap individuals in vicious cycles, particularly affecting the underprivileged. She examines how these "weapons of math destruction" impact various aspects of life, from education and employment to credit and criminal justice. O'Neil calls for increased accountability from modelers, stricter regulation, and greater public awareness to challenge and change these potentially harmful systems.
The Secret Lives of Numbers: A Hidden History of Math's Unsung Trailblazers
"The Secret Lives of Numbers" by Kate Kitagawa and Timothy Revell reframes mathematics' history, highlighting overlooked contributors across six continents and millennia. The book challenges the Eurocentric narrative, showcasing diverse mathematicians like Hypatia, Karen Uhlenbeck, and scholars from the "House of Wisdom." It explores groundbreaking work by Madhava of Sangamagrama and Black mathematicians during the Civil Rights era. This comprehensive narrative spans thousands of years and various mathematical disciplines, offering a fresh perspective on the global development of mathematics and its unsung heroes.
Visual Complex Analysis: 25th Anniversary Edition
Complex Analysis merges complex numbers with calculus, forming a crucial scientific tool for over two centuries. This book revolutionizes the subject by employing geometry instead of calculations to explain concepts, featuring 501 diagrams that replace traditional computational methods. The visual approach provides intuitive access to the underlying mathematical principles, departing from the standard, often obscure calculations used for 200 years. The 25th Anniversary Edition introduces new captions that thoroughly elucidate the geometric reasoning, transforming the work into a sophisticated, visually-driven exploration of complex analysis.
Sharing Our Science: How to Write and Speak STEM
"Sharing Our Science" by Brandon Brown is a comprehensive guide for STEM professionals seeking to improve their written and oral communication skills. The book addresses the growing need for scientists and engineers to effectively convey their work through various media. Brown covers fundamental writing principles, scientific-specific considerations, and social aspects of communication. Drawing from his experience as a scientist and writing instructor, he provides practical advice on crafting engaging narratives, conveying complex ideas, and presenting information across different formats. This accessible handbook is an invaluable resource for STEM practitioners aiming to enhance their communication abilities and share their work with both technical and general audiences.
Being Human in STEM: Partnering with Students to Shape Inclusive Practices and Communities
This book presents the Being Human in STEM Initiative (HSTEM), a model for creating inclusive environments in undergraduate STEM education. Born from student protests at Amherst College, HSTEM challenges assumptions about who belongs in STEM fields. The authors provide a framework for developing HSTEM courses, evaluating inclusive change initiatives, and adapting the model to various institutions. The book offers strategies for making any course more inclusive through active listening, validation, and reflective practice. It emphasizes the importance of institutional culture shifts and provides resources for educators to implement these changes. Each chapter includes reflective questions and practical exercises to foster inclusivity in STEM classrooms and laboratories.
How to Derive a Formula
This book argues for the continued importance of scientific formulae alongside AI advancements. It explores the process of deriving formulas, emphasizing their role in understanding nature's laws. The authors aim to make mathematics more accessible to physical science students by focusing on practical skills and intuition rather than technical knowledge. The book uses relevant examples from various scientific fields, incorporating historical facts and humor to engage learners. It offers a fresh approach to mathematics education, addressing common obstacles students face and demonstrating the subject's relevance and applicability.
Modern Mathematical Logic
This modern textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to mathematical logic, employing contemporary notation and perspectives. It covers basic concepts, completeness, compactness, and incompleteness, while also delving into model theory, set theory, and computability. Suitable for upper-undergraduate or beginning-graduate courses, it requires only modest mathematical background. The text features numerous examples and classroom-tested exercises to reinforce key ideas and applications. With its fresh approach, this engaging book offers a thorough exploration of this enduringly fascinating and important subject, emphasizing its interactions with other areas of mathematics.
Selected Services and Resources
Reminders of key resources ahead of each semester—see more in Faculty Resources:
Class Instruction
I will meet with you and your class to provide an overview of library resources and research strategies tailored to specific assignments. (Please request at least two weeks in advance.)
Appointments
If you are new faculty and would like a personal overview of what the library offers—or if you've been around a while and would like a refresher—please schedule a time to meet.
Course Reserves
The library can place both physical and online materials on reserve for your classes. We encourage you to make arrangements prior to the start of each semester or as soon as possible, and email gleesonreserves@usfca.edu with any questions.
Research Guides
We curate research guides for a variety of disciplines, topics, and classes. Please consider including a link to the Mathematics guide on your course canvas pages for your students.
Book Orders
If you would like us to purchase specific books for the library, please contact me via email with the information: randall.souther@usfca.edu. We're happy to partner with you to build a rich and useful collection.
Streaming Videos for Classroom Use
If you’re planning on using streaming videos from the library, we encourage you to make arrangements prior to the start of each semester:
Even if you’ve made arrangements for a specific title in the past, please confirm that the license will be active during the semester. Many of our streaming videos are licensed for only a year at a time, and we want to make sure you and your students have access when you need it. License expiration dates, when applicable, are indicated in the “Access Restrictions” note in the catalog record for the video.
You can search our streaming video collection in the library’s catalog. For additional information, please see our Video and Streaming Media for Faculty guide, or contact me for help.