Books
All books in Special Collections and Archives are cataloged and can be found in the library catalog (advanced search).
Be sure to change the Search Scope to "Special Collections and Archives" before searching.
You can search using a keyword, or use more specific fields such as title, author, subject, call number, or ISBN if known.
To view a book in the reading room:
- Complete and sign a call slip (available at the front desk) for each item
- Include the full call number
- For oversize books, write “OVERSIZE” next to the call number
Periodicals/magazines
Most periodicals (including journals and magazines) are also cataloged in the library catalog and can be searched in the same way as books.
When requesting periodicals, it is important to include both the title and the specific issue(s) you would like to view. For example: Casino Journal, January–December 1995.
To request periodicals in the reading room:
- Complete and sign a call slip (available at the front desk) with the periodical title
- Include the date or date range for the issue(s)
- Submit one title per call slip
- For oversize periodicals, write “OVERSIZE” next to the call number
Oral histories
Oral histories can be explored through the Special Collections and Archives Portal (oral histories collection),
which provides information about availability and access.
Many records include transcripts, and in some cases, a digitized transcript is linked directly to the record and can be downloaded. Other records may provide access only to digital audio files from an interview.
If a transcript is available, it may be downloaded from the portal or requested for use in the reading room. If only audio is available and a release form is on file, recordings may be requested in person or through our contact form.
Some oral histories are also cataloged in the library catalog and can be searched by interviewee name, interviewer, subject, or call number.
To request oral histories in person, submit a call slip that includes the title and call number (or OH number). Please request one interview per call slip.
Additional access notes:
- If no transcript is available, ask staff about access to digitized audio recordings
- Some interviews are restricted to on-site use only and may not be copied
- For remote users, interviews without a release form are only accessible on site
- Permission from the interviewee or their heirs may be required for quotation, reproduction, or publication
Manuscript collections
Manuscript collections can be searched through the Special Collections and Archives Portal (manuscript collections).
Each collection includes a brief description and a link to a detailed finding aid.
Before requesting materials, it is recommended that you review the finding aid to identify the specific boxes or folders you would like to view.
To request a manuscript collection:
- Complete a call slip with the collection name and collection number
- List the box numbers you would like to access
- Limit requests to 5 boxes per call slip
If you are unfamiliar with finding aids, you can watch this short video tutorial:
Finding Aids: The Key to Research in Special Collections and Archives
Photographs
Special Collections and Archives holds over 450 photograph collections, which can be explored through the Special Collections and Archives Portal (photograph collections).
Collections are organized by name, and many individual photographs are described by caption and item number.
Some photographs are part of larger manuscript collections and must be located using finding aids.
Many images have been digitized and are available in the portal. To find digital images, use the “Refine My Results” column and limit results to digital objects.
High-resolution images can often be downloaded directly. However, permission may be required for uses beyond private study or research. Please review the reproduction and use guidelines before publishing or sharing images.