Special collections refer to unique materials that provide both primary and secondary sources to people conducting original research. Our collections are “special” due to their scarcity or rarity, historical value, monetary value, or research value. Archives are collections of original records created throughout the lifespan of a person, family, organization, or business. These materials essentially provide evidence of the activities, events, functions, and/or responsibilities of the creator(s). Archives and special collections differ from libraries in the types of materials collected and the ways in which they are acquired, organized, described, and made publicly accessible. These differences prompt us to create specific policies and procedures to ensure that our collections can continue to be used for decades or even centuries to come.
