Special Collections and Archives

The original Library at Colgate University (J.B. Colgate)
Houses Colgate's literary manuscripts, rare books, written materials of unique value, and collections that relate to the history of the University.
Serves as the official repository for some, but not all, of the University's administrative and academic departments.
Supports the University's curriculum, as well as the specific research interests of faculty and visitors.
Book Conservation
The Charles E. Culpeper Laboratory for the Conservation of Books and Manuscripts is also part of the Special Collections Department and is responsible for all in-house repairs of book and paper materials, as well as on-going preservation projects. Outside work is generally not accepted.
Hours
Monday-Friday: 1-5 PM, 7-10 PM Tuesday and Wednesday evenings (limited to 8 researchers at a time), or by special arrangement.
Hours may vary particularly during breaks and summer.
Sarah Keen and Francesca Livermore can provide access to Special Collections. Users, particularly off-campus researchers, are encouraged to confirm their availability prior to planning a visit particularly if traveling any distance. During the summer and break periods, access to Special Collections may be very limited.
Off-campus researchers should review our established use guidelines prior to their visit.
Location
Special Collections and Archives is located on the second level near the Main Stair of the Case Library and Geyer Center for Information Technology.
Access
Special rules govern access to and use of materials stored in Special Collections and University Archives
Strengths of the collection
Substantial rare book, archival and pamphlet collections can be found in the following subject categories:
- American Fiction
- American History
- American Poetry
- Bibles
- British History
- British Literature
- Colgate History
- European History
- Local History
- Native American History
- New York State History
- Popular Culture
- Publishing and Printing
- Radio and Television
- Railroads
- Social Activism and Reform
- U. S. Civil War
- Women
Contact Info:
For further information about
access, to make a reference inquiry, or to receive copy of a
finding aid, contact the department at:
Special Collections
Case Library
Colgate university
13 Oak Dr.
Hamilton, NY
13346
1-315-228-6175
You may also contact Sarah Keen, Head of Special Collections & University Archivist, or Francesca Livermore, Rare Books & Mss., Metadata, & Web Librarian directly.
Holdings
Descriptions of the major collections for both Special Collections and Archives are available. Finding aids are available online for selected collections. Most holdings are also reflected in the Library's online catalog.
Digital Collections
- Andrew J Russell Photographs
a collection from the Civil War -
A Burmese Collection
photographs from the 1800's
Exhibits

An early view of campus