If you already enjoy research, you'll grow to love special collections departments. Archives and special collections contain the most interesting items you'll encounter as you conduct your research, such as valuable and unique objects of historical and cultural significance.
Things like letters, diaries, rare and local publications, pictures, original drawings, and early maps are located in special collections.
Each library or archive will have a set of rules relevant to its own special collections room or department. Normally, any special collection will be set apart from the public areas and will require special permission to enter or to access.
Before you decide to visit a historical society or another archive, you should become familiar with the way that archivists typically protect their treasures. Below you'll find some tips for understanding some common practices and procedures.- You may be required to put most of your belongings into a locker as you enter the room or building where special items are held. Things like pens, markers, beepers, phones, are not permitted, as they could damage delicate collection items or disrupt other researchers.
- You may find special collections materials by doing a normal library search with index cards, but the search process may differ from place to place.
- Some libraries will have all the collections materials indexed in their electronic databases, but some will have special books or guides for the special collections. Don't worry, someone will always be on hand to guide you and let you know where to find materials that sound interesting.
- Some material will be available on microfilm or microfiche. Film items are usually kept in drawers, and you can probably retrieve either of these yourself. Once you find the right film, you will need to read it on a machine. These machines may differ from place to place, so just ask for a little direction.
- If you conduct a search and identify a rare item you'd like to view, you will probably have to fill out a request for it. Ask for a request form, fill it in, and turn it in. One of the archivists will retrieve the item for you and tell you how to handle it. You may have to sit at a specific table and wear gloves to view the item.
Does this process sound a little intimidating? Don't be frightened off by the rules! They are put into place so that archivists can protect their very special collections!
You'll soon find that some of these items are so intriguing and so valuable to your research that they're well worth the extra effort.
