Overview
Archival collections and rare books can sometimes feel intimidating to use as they are accessed in person and in a controlled environment. These primary source materials can be delicate and are usually one of a kind, valuable and difficult to acquire. However, we have eliminated many barriers that might make individuals feel intimidated by facilitating their use with classroom visits and tours to our rare book vault space. Both students and faculty can use these items for learning, and research activities and they are actively encouraged to do so.
When students visit the Archives and Special Collections (ASC) they can see, touch and learn from items that are not available in regular library holdings; the page of a manuscript from centuries ago with illumination and decorations, books made of vellum, hand bound with leather bindings and metal clasps. It is on these pages that students can access the past in real time and make their classroom theory and studies more tangible.
Acquiring rare books and manuscripts can be a challenge. With limited markets and offerings, with the addition of unknown availability there can be more demand than supply. With the creation of the Book Arts Lab (BAL), ASC has seen an increase in the use of our collections as exemplars of hand scribed manuscripts, rare and interesting book construction and prints found within those pages.
Our goal is to acquire items that complement the experiential learning in BAL. We hope that donations will allow us to acquire items as they come to market. Books and manuscripts that are not so precious that they cannot be held, the pages examined, and discussions had with the book in situ.
The Background
Rare books provide access to past generations, their thoughts, the artistry of the book, and are evidence of the human experience. By supporting this campaign, you are ensuring the preservation of these works while also providing access to these resources to students and classrooms. The support to build this collection provides equity though study and engagement with the past. Our collections represent a valuable resource for professors and instructors interested in using primary sources, including rare books and rare folios. These collections demonstrate various print formats, adding depth to instruction in diverse academic fields.
We’re not just acquiring books—we’re preserving voices, inspiring minds, and building bridges between centuries.
The Rollout
The funds received will be set aside to purchase examples of manuscripts and rare folios that can be used in history of the book courses, medieval studies, English, and history. It is difficult to provide specific examples as many come to market fleetingly. The funds will be reserved for when these items become available, and we can acquire them. We hope to add 5 more examples to our holdings.
The Impact
Our core mandate is to provide comprehensive support, services, and resources for teaching and learning for faculty, staff, students, and the public. We do this by developing, preserving, maintaining, and by making accessible our holdings within the context of innovative research, teaching, and learning. We also strive to support knowledge development and showcase the history and heritage of a wide variety of cultures, societies, and groups.