Special Collection books are cataloged and can be located through Search It. Collections of manuscripts, photographs, posters and other items may be searched through the department's management system Archon. The department's materials are available for use in its reading room, located on the fifth floor of Hale Library. Selected materials are held in the Libraries' depository facility and may require advance notice for access. Researchers may wish to contact the Archives to ensure immediate access.
All researchers requesting special collections materials must register. K-State students, faculty, or staff are asked to show their university i.d. cards. Non-university researchers are asked to provide another form of photo identification.
Reference Assistance
When planning to visit special collections, researchers are strongly encouraged to schedule an appointment. A staff member can then verify we hold the materials requested and that the archives will be open.
Researchers who are unable to visit in person may contact us by e-mail, phone or letter. We do ask, however, that you make your requests as specific as possible. Staff is limited and is not able to conduct extensive research on behalf of researchers.
If you are unable to visit our facility in person and need to conduct extensive research, we may be able to provide you with the names of freelance researchers in the area.
Access Restrictions
Some special collections materials may have restrictions on access or use. Collections may be restricted based on confidentiality, copyright, condition, or by donor request. Staff will explain to researchers the reasons for access restrictions. Patrons requesting access to restricted materials must contact the person or agency imposing the restriction. Access to restricted collections cannot be granted without written authority.
