Special collections includes valuable, unique, or rare materials, often used for research, that are kept secure and preserved for long-term accessibility. Materials in special collections cannot be removed from the library, and must be viewed either digitally or in person in the special collections reading room. Types of materials in special collections might include but are not limited to: rare books, manuscripts, records, photographs, artifacts, and audio-visual materials. Due to the importance of preservation, materials must be handled with care, and reading rooms will often have rules in place to prevent harm or deterioration to the collections. For example, permanent writing utensils, food, plants, and other items that could stain or leave residue on materials are prohibited. Different materials may have different handling needs, so please consult with special collections staff if uncertain.
The Auraria Library Special and Digital Collections Unit encompasses collections of unique and special materials including manuscripts, audiovisual objects, photographs, rare books, maps and urban plans, and ephemera.
We maintain many unique collections pertaining to Auraria, Denver, and Colorado history, such as those pertaining to Aurarian displacement, local activism, campus development, Hispanic American communities, Japanese internment, and women's rights. You can find an in-progress list of our archival and book collections in our Collections and Finding Aids guide.
You can also book an appointment or consultation directly by emailing us at specialcollections@ucdenver.edu
