Special Collections and University Archives
Special Collections and University Archives houses Colgate's literary manuscripts, rare books, written materials of unique value, and collections that relate to the history of the University.
The University Archives serves as the official repository for the records of the university's administrative and academic departments.
The department supports the University's curriculum through its collecting program and instruction sessions.
Book Preservation
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 not accepted.
Hours
Monday-Friday: 1-5 PM, 7-10 PM Monday and Tuesday evenings starting the fourth week of the academic semester, or by appointment.
Reading room capacity is limited to 8 researchers at a time.
Hours are by appointment during breaks and summer. Access during these times may be very limited.
Researchers, particularly off-campus researchers, are encouraged to confirm staff availability prior to planning a visit, especially if traveling any distance.
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 Information
Mailing address:
- Special Collections and University Archives
- Case Library
- Colgate University
- 13 Oak Drive
- Hamilton, NY 13346
Phone:
- 1-315-228-6175
Staff:
- Sarah Keen, Head of Special Collections & University Archivist
- Vacant, Rare Books and Manuscripts Librarian
- Lora Davis, Assistant Archivist
- Alli Grim, Conservation Technician
Collections
Descriptions of the major collections for both Special Collections and Archives are available. Finding aids are available online for selected collections. Some holdings are also reflected in the Library's online catalog.
Digital Collections
- Colgate University Student Newspapers
- Cuneiform Digital Library
- Postcards at Colgate
- Modern Sketch
- Andrew J Russell Photographs a collection from the Civil War
- A Burmese Collection photographs from the 1800's
Exhibits
An early view of campus