Our Library
A living Heritage of Faith and Reason
Our Library
Nestled within the ancient walls of the Abbey of Fossanova, where St. Thomas Aquinas spent his final days, the Library of the Fides et Ratio Institute stands as a living continuation of his legacy — a place where faith and reason meet in harmony.
The library serves as the intellectual heart of the Institute, preserving the wisdom of the Catholic tradition while nurturing the pursuit of truth among students, scholars, and visitors.
More than a repository of books, it is a space of encounter, study, and contemplation open to members of the Institute, the local community of Rome and Priverno, and to all who seek to enrich their understanding of faith and culture.
History of the Abbey
The Abbey of Fossanova, founded in the 12th century, is one of Italy’s most remarkable examples of early Cistercian architecture.
It was here, in 1274, that St. Thomas Aquinas, Doctor of the Church, completed his earthly pilgrimage.
The Abbey’s serene environment and spiritual legacy continue to inspire the academic mission of the Fides et Ratio Institute, uniting centuries of tradition with the Church’s call for renewal in education and evangelization.
Restoring and reviving the Abbey’s library means restoring its ancient role as a beacon of study, prayer, and cultural dialogue.
The Library’s Role and Importance
Study
Faith
Knowledge
The library houses an expanding collection of philosophical, theological, and cultural works, with a focus on Thomistic studies and the patristic tradition.
It supports the academic work of the Department of Philosophy and Theology, providing the necessary resources for research, reflection, and writing.
Beyond serving the Institute, the library welcomes priests, religious, scholars, and lay visitors who wish to consult its materials or spend time in quiet study and reflection.
By doing so, it bridges the Abbey’s spiritual heritage with the modern Church’s intellectual mission.
Books By the Numbers
The library currently holds an extensive and carefully curated collection that continues to grow each year.
As of the current fiscal year, the catalog comprises 21,617 titles and 24,028 individual holdings, encompassing a diverse range of works in philosophy, theology, Church history, literature, and classical languages.
During this past year alone, 978 new titles were added to the collection — a sign of the Institute’s ongoing commitment to providing its students and scholars with the most complete resources for academic formation and research.
Acknowledgements
The expansion of the library’s collection has been made possible through the generous contributions of private donors and a grant from a charitable foundation.
Their commitment to advancing Catholic education and scholarship enables the Institute to continually enrich its catalog with essential works in philosophy, theology, and the humanities.
These donations not only preserve the intellectual heritage of the Church but also make possible new avenues of study for our students, researchers, and visiting scholars.
Educational Mission and Formation
The Fides et Ratio Institute is among the few centers in the United States and Italy providing advanced instruction in philosophy and theology according to the Thomistic tradition.
This formation is particularly vital for students from non-Christian regions and disadvantaged backgrounds, for whom this may be their first experience living in a fully Catholic academic environment.
To ensure a comprehensive and balanced education, the Institute provides:
– A 100% adequate standard of living and resources for all students.
– Monthly extracurricular activities, including visits to museums, archaeological sites, and cultural landmarks, enrich both intellectual and human formation.
As a religious institute, we are deeply conscious of our responsibility to evolve in response to the needs of the new generations, fostering the human, educational, and spiritual development of those we serve. and foster
Academic Excellence
Rigorous programs in philosophy and theology rooted in the Thomistic tradition prepare students for academic leadership and research in the Church and society.
Missionary Formation
Students are formed to serve the Church throughout the world, particularly in regions where Christian education is scarce or developing.
Community & Catholic Environment
Many of our students, coming from disadvantaged backgrounds or non-Christian regions, experience for the first time a fully Catholic academic community that supports their human and spiritual growth.
Cultural and Historical Enrichment
Monthly extracurricular activities—such as visits to museums, archaeological sites, and historical landmarks—deepen students’ understanding of Western culture and Christian heritage.
Research and Reflection
Guided by dedicated professors, students engage in research, writing, and dialogue that promote the harmony between faith and reason envisioned by St. Thomas Aquinas.
Human & Spiritual Development
Integral formation unites intellectual growth with spiritual life, fostering virtues, contemplation, and service in every aspect of missionary and academic work.
Digital Resources and Research Works
The Fides et Ratio Library extends beyond the walls of the Abbey through its growing digital collection, offering access to significant works in theology, philosophy, and classical studies.
Through online resources and student research, the Institute promotes the continuous study of truth as taught by St. Thomas Aquinas and the Catholic intellectual tradition.
Visitors are invited to explore foundational texts, scholarly Tesinas, and academic materials that reflect the Institute’s mission to unite faith and reason in dialogue with the modern world.
Support The Library
Thank You For Your Support!
The continued growth of the library depends on the generosity of benefactors who share in our mission of spreading truth and knowledge.
We welcome donations of books, educational materials, and software, as well as financial support, to preserve and expand this sacred space of learning.