The Soulerin Collection represents the pre-Confederation library of St. Michael’s College. It is named in honour of the Reverend Jean Mathieu Soulerin who was the first Basilian Superior of the college from 1852 to 1865. The collection numbers almost 900 volumes (some 700 titles), most of which date from the late 18th or the early 19th century.
The collection is strongest in British and European history, English and French literature, and Catholic theology. A number of 18th century journals are represented in the collection: The Tatler and The Spectator (1709-1714), The Historical Register(1714-1743), The Universal Magazine (1747-1753), and The Annual Register (1758-1798). Many of these works were formerly in the personal libraries of Father Soulerin, other pioneer teachers at the college, or the Hon. John Elmsley.
All items in the Soulerin Collection are listed in the University of Toronto Libraries catalogue.