Special Collections

Rare Book Reading Room Institutional Archives and Manuscript Collection

Our print collection includes over 3600 cataloged rare books, dating from 1470 to about 1830. The collection has a strong emphasis in the Presbyterian and Reformed tradition, Bible, church history (including patristics), theology, ecumenism and ministry (homiletics, Christian Education, missionary work, etc). An outstanding collection of 19th century children's books and Sunday School materials is housed in the Rare Book Reading Room.

The Special Collections also include many 19th century church-related newspapers, especially those of a Presbyterian or Reformed character in Virginia and the South. Over 1500 linear feet of manuscript materials and institutional records are housed in the Archives. We also provide space for the Synod of Virginia records collection and those of the Presbyterian Outlook. The personal papers of our faculty members and certain other ministers and missionaries of the Presbyterian Church US form the core of the manuscript collection. Some finding aids to the collection are available in the Archives.

Due to recent staff reductions, we are able to offer access to our special collections only by appointment. Please contact us when you wish to visit, so that we can try to have someone available to assist you. Note that the Special Collections are not open on weekends or holidays, or when staff is unavailable.

For outside researchers, a fee of $10.00/day is required.

For further information, please contact :

Access Policies

Rules Governing the Use of Manuscripts and Rare Books (PDF file)

Application to Examine Manuscript Materials (PDF file)