The library initially held some 200,000 items, which grew to some 400,000 printed items, maps and manuscripts by the end of the 1780s. It also accumulated a collection of art, scientific instruments, and plant and animal specimens.
The library initially held approximately 200,000 items, which grew to roughly 400,000 printed materials, maps, and manuscripts by the end of the 1780s. It also accumulated a collection of art, scientific instruments, and specimens of plants and animals.