Special Collections is open to all researchers for onsite research, but with limited capacity in our reading room. We strongly encourage requesting an appointment to ensure that we will be able to accommodate your visit. We may need to limit your appointment to two hours depending on demand. Please email us at spcoll@wm.edu with requests for appointments, research consultations, and any other questions.
If you are unable to visit in person, we will digitize materials as feasible in accordance with our copy policy, with priority given to internal W&M requests. Visit our Digital Collections to access our digitized manuscript, university archives, and rare book collections.
The Special Collections Research Center (SCRC) at Swem Library connects students, faculty, and researchers with rare and unique materials, including:
- original manuscripts
- photographs
- rare books
- maps
- audiovisual media
- and more
Our collections capture vibrant and layered accounts of life lived, including the vast history of William & Mary and its community. Through hands-on exploration, course instruction, and innovative collection development, the SCRC archives human experience and promotes human interaction.
Open to all, the SCRC collects and preserves history and culture so it is accessible for years to come.