What are Special Collections?
Introduction
The University of Manchester Library holds one of the finest collections of rare books, manuscripts, archives and visual collections in the world, collectively known as the University of Manchester’s Special Collections. These collections are mainly concentrated in the magnificent building on Deansgate, The John Rylands Research Institute and Library, in the centre of Manchester. They are also housed in the Main Library on the University campus, (The Archives Centre and Map Room), and at the Ahmed Iqbal Ullah RACE (Race Archives and Community Engagement) Centre, in Manchester Central Library.
List of Formats
Special Collections include a wide range of formats, from clay tablets and parchment to photographs, objects and digital records. Use the links below to find out more about the types of Special Collections material that we hold at the University of Manchester Library.
