The legendary Svalbard Handbook from 1916 includes descriptions of Bear Island and all the islands and island groups that are considered part of Svalbard. The aim was to provide sailors with information for navigation and meteorology. At that time, Svalbard was still largely unexplored. This first relatively precise handbook of the area owes its existence to the Olga expedition in the summer of 1898. Captain Richard Dittmer, who led the journey, also significantly influenced this handbook. Even today, the book captivates with its precise, richly illustrated details and information.