Quantum theory and you: Curated collection traces ongoing evolution of computing power
“From DOS to Qiskit: Turning Entanglement into Quantum Computation”—the library’s 2023–2024 Model Research Collection—considers the “quantum leaps” that have occurred in our ability to process information, thanks to the rapid advances in the field of quantum theory since the early twentieth century.
Curator Florian Carle, manager of the Yale Quantum Institute, has selected materials that track the novel ways humans have applied quantum theory—from the classical computers that ran DOS software to today’s quantum computers that run Qiskit. The collection also makes some playful excursions into the corners of pre-quantum computing technology.
More than 35 books on the topic, displayed on the main floor of Bass, will be available for borrowing. Also on view, in the Bass-Sterling hallway, will be a selection of artifacts: classical computers, various data storage technologies, and quantum bits from Yale’s laboratories.
“We are at the very early stages of quantum computing,” Florian said, “the juncture where the superconducting quantum devices that take up a whole room are still barely capable of an infinitesimal fraction of the computational power of your smartphone.
“Globally, scientists continue to build unique machines to try to make sense of the complex and intriguing logic of the quantum world.”
“From DOS to Qiskit: Turning Entanglement into Quantum Computation” opens on Mon., Aug. 28, and will be on view until May 6, 2024.
Join the curator at the opening reception on Sept. 21 at 4 p.m. in Bass Library. View the collection booklist.
Each year, the Model Research Collection series highlights one researcher’s process of investigation into a topic of choice, expressed physically through a curated collection of library resources. The series is designed to bring to light the breadth and depth of Yale Library’s resources.
View future Model Research Collection events.
Read about past events in the Model Research Collection series.
—Deborah Cannarella
