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WKU Special Collections Library



The Special Collections Library supports WKU’s mission by facilitating research and lifelong learning. We acquire and preserve a unique collection spanning many disciplines and historical periods, while highlighting diverse and historically underrepresented communities. These collections are accessible both in person and virtually to serve students, faculty, and the research community.  Through outreach and active learning encounters, these primary and secondary resources serve to support the University’s curriculum while fostering student success, critical thinking, and original scholarship.

Please note: Special Collections Library holdings include historically and culturally sensitive images and text; the University Libraries does not endorse such views and presents these for research purposes only.


Before you come to the Special Collections Library for your visit, it is important for you to read and understand the Policies and Procedures that govern use of the Reading Room and our collections. You can find those policies here: Special Collections Reading Room Policies & Procedures.

You will also need to familiarize yourself with parking at WKU and those spaces closest to the library. The address of the building is 1547 Normal Street. Visitors to WKU Special Collections can take advantage of pay for parking spots at the Hilltop Lot, Virginia Garrett Loop Lot (behind Topper Transit stop #34), or Mimosa Point. As a note, accessible entry to the Cravens Library is from either the Hilltop or Virginia Garrett Loop Lots. Please see the public parking map for these spots. Public parking costs $2 per hour, or you can make arrangements with Special Collections for a parking tag available for $5 (we request correct change only). Please contact spcol@wku.edu if you would like to arrange a pass. Further information about parking can be found at the WKU Parking & Transportation page.

If you have further questions about your visit, please contact us at spcol@wku.edu or 270-745-5083.



 


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 Last Modified 9/21/23