Special collections are materials that require careful preservation in archives. They can include books, letters, diaries, maps, oral history interviews, photos, artwork, audiovisual media, physical objects, and more. They might be very old or relatively new, and they're often rare or totally unique. Many of them are primary sources which come directly from the creator or from a specific time or place.
In contrast to libraries, materials in archives can't be checked out. More archival content is digitized every year so you can view it online. However, because this process requires a lot of time and investment, the vast majority of special collections content around the world is not digitized yet and is only available in person. At the University of Maryland Archives, we hold over 5 linear miles of archival materials (picture that lined up on a shelf) and more than 3 million book titles, but only 4 feet of content has been digitized. This amounts to less than 1% of our total collections!
Plus, because special collections materials tend to be so personal and physical, it can be more rewarding to experience them directly, if you're able to do so.
Materials held in the UMD Special Collections and University Archives can be accessed by visiting the Maryland Room in the Hornbake Library. Because these materials are rare and often fragile, the Maryland Room has policies about what can be brought in with you when researching.
Before arriving to the Maryland Room, consider setting up a Special Collections Account. This will allow you to request materials in advance of your visit so that they are waiting for you upon arrival.
Learn what to expect on your first visit:
