Special Collections Instruction

Below are some of the instruction options available from Special Collections. You can make an instruction request by way of the Library Instruction Request Form, here.

For online instruction, for virtual exercises and library instruction options.

---

Overview of Special Collections (1 visit)

A curator will discuss the collections and policies in Special Collections and the differences between Special Collections and Cook Library/public libraries. Examples from the collections will be highlighted, which can be tailored to the research needs/topics of the class. An overview of the website, digital collections, and searching for resources will be included. Class size: maximum 30 people. For larger classes, a curator can visit the classroom with a PowerPoint presentation.

Overview of Special Collections and Research Day (2 visits)

One day will include an overview of Special Collections (see description above). For the second day, students will conduct research in Special Collections on a topic provided by the professor. A curator will work with the students and professor to have appropriate material available for students to explore.

Overview of Special Collections and Research Days (3+ visits)

For a research-intensive experience, professors can bring students on multiple occasions to conduct research in Special Collections on topics selected by the professor or students. A curator will work with the students and professor to have appropriate material available for students to explore.

Active Learning Exercises (1 visit)

This format emphasizes the importance of having students engage with the materials. Working with a curator, classes focus on examining materials based on format, subject, dates, or topics proposed by the professor. By the end of the class, students will know how to analyze primary sources for research use.

Guest Lecture (1 visit)

A curator will visit your class, or the class can come to Special Collections for a discussion of specific collections held in Special Collections. The professor will work with a curator to determine the focus of the class.

Assignment-based Instruction

A curator will work with the professor to help create an assignment using the collections. Past assignments include a scavenger hunt of Special Collections materials, selecting images from industrial pamphlets for use in graphic design projects, and selecting a primary source to explicate in 500 words.

Other Uses

Curators often partner with faculty, students, and community members to host digital projects, exhibits, and events. Professors interested in using Special Collections in their classes .

Questions? Interested in using Special Collections in your class? Contact Jennifer Brannock, Curator of Rare Books and Mississippiana, at or 601.266.4347.