Contact Info
Archive, Manuscript & Rare Book collections are accessed in Olin Library at the Special Collections reading room.
HOURS: Monday - Friday 9:00-5:00 by appointment
LOCATION: Olin Library, 1st floor, Danforth Campus
REQUESTS / APPOINTMENTS: 314-935-5495 spec@wumail.wustl.edu
*collections stored offsite require advance notice for retrieval and use
Questions about a specific topic? Contact:
University Archives: Sonya Rooney
Rare Books: Cassie Brand
Manuscript: Joel Minor
Local History: Miranda Rectenwald
Dowd Illustration Research Archive: interim curator
Film & Media Archive: Andy Uhrich
About University Archives
Washington University Archives supports scholarship in many academic fields by preserving and providing access to over 300 unique collections that chronicle the history of Washington University from 1853 to today.
The collections contain a wealth of primary sources and other historical materials that include manuscripts, photographic prints and negatives, books, film, sound recordings, microfilm, architectural plans, and artifacts.
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WashU Archives Finding Aids by Category
- University RecordsUniversity Records consist of records created in campus departments and offices. This includes, but is not limited to, photographic services, commencement, department files, chancellor official records, provost records, and WashU Memorabilia.
- University PublicationsUniversity Publications include publications created and distributed by various WashU departments and offices, and some student organizations.
- University Administrators and Faculty CollectionsThese collections include personal papers of various chancellors that are not official records from the office of the Chancellor, as well as collections of personal papers from other administrators and faculty.
- Alumni CollectionsThese collections include personal papers and memorabilia from WashU alums.
- Student Groups MaterialsThese collections include materials, including reports, publicity, and memorabilia, that document various WashU student groups.
- Other SubjectsThese collections include topics that are adjacent to WashU history.