The Library of the Institute for the Study of Earth and Man has been a part of ISEM since the Institute was founded over thirty years ago. It is based on the personal professional library of William B. Heroy, Sr., founder and first Director and President of ISEM, and reflects his interests in the relationship between the earth and humankind.

Over the years, others have provided the Institute with gift journals and books. The Library's primary goal is to provide academic support to the Departments of Geological Sciences and Anthropology and to the professional scientists associated with ISEM. The more than 10,000 library items are supplemented by special collections, such as the reprint files of William B. Heroy, Sr., the Kathryn Clisby collection in paleo-ethnobotany and holdings in African prehistory.

The mid-1990's brought to ISEM the Hollis D. Hedberg Library. This fine collection involves two academic interests of Hollis Hedberg: the history of geology and early travel and exploration especially in South America. Items in this collection date from 1743 to the 1970's. The Library is a gift of Mrs. Frances Hedberg and the Hedberg family. The Hedberg Library is housed adjacent to the ISEM Library with both under the direction of John F.S. Phinney.