About

In brief

Special Collections brings together the University of Washington Libraries’ most rare and unique resources. From papyrus to born-digital, our holdings span history and the globe, and offer boundless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Students, faculty, and visitors are invited to examine manuscripts, printed works, artists’ books, photographs, maps, and other materials in the protected environment of the Special Collections reading room.  Our digital collections are available on the web.

Book Arts & Rare Books

Historical Visual Materials

Labor Archives of Washington

Pacific Northwest Collection

University of Washington Archives

Ethnomusicology Archives

Prepare for your visit

Volunteer/Internship Opportunities

We welcome volunteers and interns to assist us in our work. If you are interested in learning more about opportunities available in Special Collections please contact us!

Annual Report

Current Exhibit | Zeitgeist: Seattle in the ’20s

Fall 2024 UW Libraries Special Collections will be exploring the zeitgeist of Seattle in the ’20s — 100 years ago and today! Join us in exploring popular culture and current events of Seattle in the 2020s and 1920s.