In 2004, the University of Northern Iowa acquired its one-millionth volume, Wells' Pocket Hand-Book of Iowa. The following is adapted from a Special Collections & University Archives essay regarding the acquisition of this volume:

In 2004, the Rod Library at the University of Northern Iowa was approaching the addition of its one millionth volume. Special Collections Librarian and University Archivist Gerald L. Peterson was asked to look for a book that would be appropriate for the occasion. Consequently, the Library chose a book that related to Iowa’s historical roots. The book is described in the bibliographic citation below.

Author: Wells, John G.
Title: Wells’ pocket hand-book of Iowa; past, present and prospective; comprising a concise delineation of the state, to which is prefixed pre-emption laws relating to the public lands, a copious synopsis of all U. S. land laws, and blank forms of documents, indispensable to settlers or their representatives; illustrated with a new railroad and township map.
Place and Date of Publication: New York, 1857

This book, which includes a color map of Iowa, is rare, especially in the fine condition of the volume obtained by the Rod Library for this occasion.