Welcome
ASU Library's collections of rare and unique materials include rare books, manuscripts, photographs, prints, historical newspapers, realia, architectural drawings, materials related to ASU’s history and much more. Our major collections document the peoples and places of the Southwest Region. We also have collections that provide a window into the history and cultures of North America, Western Europe, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East.
ASU Library's specialized materials staff is committed to providing access to everyone who is interested in learning about our collections. To learn more about viewing items in our collections, visit our reading rooms page or contact us through Ask an Archivist.
Interested in a collection?
Get in touch with an archivist or curator to learn more!
Our team
The Special Collections team consists of librarians and archivists who have extensive disciplinary knowledge to help students, researchers and members of the community interested in our collections. Our team also has specialized training in the selection, description and specialized care of rare and unique historical materials.
Our featured collections
Black Collections
An archival repository focused on creating a robust community collection dedicated to documenting the lived experiences of Black people living and thriving in Arizona.
Chicano/a Research Collection
Arizona’s largest Latino archival collection that focuses on oral histories and family records.
Design and the Arts Special Collections
This collection emphasizes desert-sensitive design and the evolution of midcentury and modern architecture in the Southwest.
Greater Arizona Collection
This collection documents the diverse communities and cultures and political histories of the region.
Latin Americana Collection
This collection supports ASU faculty and students studying the literature, history, culture and languages of Latin America, Spain and Portugal.
Rare Books and Manuscripts
This diverse collection includes items representing nearly 40 centuries, from a clay tablet to contemporary artists' books.
Theatre for Youth and Community Collection
The world’s largest archive that documents children’s theatre from the 16th century to present.
University Archives
Explore the history and evolution of Arizona State University, from 1885 to present day.
News and blog
More news
Passover Haggadot at ASU Library
From WWII documents to digital downloads: ASU Library celebrates 80 years with the Federal Depository Library Program
ASU Library publishes new report on inclusive print collections design
