The Rare Books & Special Collections Department of the Northern Illinois University Libraries includes those materials that, because of subject coverage, rarity, source, condition, or form, are best handled separately from the General Collection.* We believe that primary materials are an integral part of the educational experience. We have the opportunity to provide students at all levels in nearly all subject areas with interaction with "the real thing" right here on campus, without requiring a trip to Chicago in most cases. Rare Books and Special Collections is dedicated to helping you provide a holistic educational experience --one that provides your students with the opportunity to handle history and learn from it, based upon your educational goals, aims, and syllabi.
We always welcome community groups and class visits, at all academic levels, from elementary school through graduate school and beyond. We happily create presentations to suit your syllabus. Please contact Lynne Thomas, the Head of Rare Books and Special Collections (815)-753-0255, to set up a class or group visit. You are also welcome to come by and just visit: we always have a current exhibition on display, along with periodicals and catalogs of interest to book lovers.
We are here to serve you and your students and research. Please, make use of us!
*This statement taken from University of Idaho Special Collections--they just said it best!