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Syracuse University Libraries

Special Collections Research Strategies

This guide will assist students, faculty, and the general public in conducting research at the Special Collections Research Center (SCRC) at Syracuse University Libraries.

Welcome to the Special Collections Research Center

What is the Special Collections Research Center (SCRC)?

SCRC maintains and provides access to distinguished collections of rare books, manuscripts, and other archival materials spanning over 4,000 years - from the 21st century BCE to the 21st century CE and represent an array of subject areas relevant to Syracuse University and the region. Our library holds over 100,000 printed works and 4,000 archival collections, including important editions, manuscripts, documents, letters, diaries, drawings, photographs, and memorabilia are available to Syracuse University students, faculty, staff, and the public.

You can find more information about us on the SCRC's website!

The SCRC not only holds the vast collection of SCRC materials, but also houses the Pan Am Flight 103/Lockerbie Air Disaster Archives and the Syracuse University Archives. More information can be found at the links below!

How can SCRC help me?

With a visit to our Reading Room on the 6th floor of Bird Library, you can study primary sources of information—such as documents, letters, and drawings—available in SCRC's collections. Studying primary sources can greatly enhance research done through secondary sources, such as scholarly journal articles and books. Please see our Visit Information website for more information about how to visit the Reading Room, Visitor guidelines and policies, and Information on Accessibility.

How can I get started?

To identify SCRC collection materials that you'd like to work with, follow the tabs to the left to learn the best ways to browse or search through the collections.

If you are unsure about anything or have questions about SCRC collections, please ask the SCRC Reference Librarian for help.

Once you are ready to request materials, here is how you can make an appointment:

  • Link to visit request form here!
  • Once filled out, our SCRC staff will get back to you to finalize your appointment and your chosen materials

Special Collections Research Center's Reading Room