Access to Special Collections and Archives: Bridging Theory and Practice

(Hardback)

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Since the early 20th century, American academic libraries have collected and championed rare and unique non-circulating materials now referred to as special collections. Because of the rarity and value of these materials, they are handled differently than materials in other parts of academic library collections. Thus, a different set of access policies and procedures, as well as specialized staff, have been employed.
This book provides a thorough exploration of access, which is a cornerstone of the library profession. It looks at how practitioners perceptions of access to special collections have changed from the formative period of the 1930s to today. Using a grounded theory approach on datasets comprised of LIS literature and interviews of special collections professionals with between 5 and 50 years of experience, two conceptual models developed.
The two conceptual models are:
Aspects of Access, which defines ten components that contribute to access goals: Diversity, Documentation, Engagement, Preservation, Protection, Provision, Readers, Spaces, Stewardship, and Technology. A historical overview sets the stage for in-depth discussion of each aspect.Gatekeeping Model of Access, which applies gatekeeping theory to chart how the Aspects of Access support or hinder the connection of readers to collection materials.An exploration of access through the lens of special collections is especially meaningful because of the tension between the principles of preservation and access within the special collections community. This project is also significant as the library profession explores how representation of diversity within collections and the profession impacts readers. Exploring how we think about access should be part of these ongoing conversations.

Reviews

Rossmans gift to the field is in articulating the 'Aspects of Access', grounding each aspect in historical context, then liberating each from any inevitable role or outcome. This is a clear and discerning voice, offering a constellation of access points to Special Collections as an enterprise. Rossman has reset the concept of Access to allow for a 21st century consideration. -- Sean Noel, associate director, Howard Gotlieb Archival Research Center, Boston University Libraries
Rossman's compelling account of the history, theories, and current state of 'access' to special collections both broadens and adds depth to the definition and surrounding conversations. All library workers and users will find value in her holistic framework for expanding access to our physical and digital spaces and collections. -- Clara Drummond, lead curator, Eberly Family Special Collections Library, Penn State University

Author Bio

Jae Jennifer Rossman, Ph.D.,associate director for Special Collections Instruction and Research Services at the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library at Yale University. She has published on library history and practice and the field of artists books for over twenty years. Her publications have been collected by academic libraries nationally and internationally. Rossman has served on the Board of Trustees, American Printing History Association and the Board of Directors, Center for Book Arts. She has worked in the libraries of Brandeis University, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and Yale University.