 The MIT library system consists of five subject libraries : Barker ( Engineering ) , Dewey ( Economics ) , Hayden ( Humanities and Science ) , Lewis ( Music ) , and Rotch ( Arts and Architecture ) . There are also various specialized libraries and archives . The libraries contain more than 2 @.@ 9 million printed volumes , 2 @.@ 4 million microforms , 49 @,@ 000 print or electronic journal subscriptions , and 670 reference databases . The past decade has seen a trend of increased focus on digital over print resources in the libraries . Notable collections include the Lewis Music Library with an emphasis on 20th and 21st @-@ century music and electronic music , the List Visual Arts Center 's rotating exhibitions of contemporary art , and the Compton Gallery 's cross @-@ disciplinary exhibitions . MIT allocates a percentage of the budget for all new construction and renovation to commission and support its extensive public art and outdoor sculpture collection . 
