The Carmelite Collection was acquired by the School of Theology Library in 1999 by Dr. Raymond Van De Moortell, STH Head Librarian, from the Carmelite Communion in Beacon, New York; and Carmelite Monasteries in Barre, Vermont and Saranac Lake, New York. The Collection consists of nearly 1600 volumes mostly from the early and mid-twentieth century, reflecting the rich tradition of Carmelite spirituality. Topics covered include contemplative prayer, monastic life, history of spirituality, ascetic theology, and a wide array of themes in Roman Catholic liturgy, sacramental theology, spiritual direction and religious formation. It also includes contemporary editions of theological works published by the Institute of Carmelite Studies in Washington,D.C., and a group of academic dissertations (mostly written by Carmelites) from the Institute of Spiritual Life at Duquesne University.
The Collection is particularly rich in works dealing with founders and foundresses of religious communities and the missions and works that developed from these foundations.