These eighty-five essays on the Constitution were originally published in New York newspapers under the title "Publius" in an effort to persuade voters to support ratification of the Constitution. Although written as political propaganda, The Federalist is a brilliant commentary and interpretation of the Constitution.

In addition to possessing a first edition of The Federalist, the Rare Books Collection includes such notable items as the proceedings of the first Continental Congress printed in London in 1775, and a copy of the first session laws of the United States printed in 1789.