Special Collections & University Archives is home to unique, rare, and historically significant books, photographs, audio-visual material, comics, and more. Highlights include archives of grassroots community organizations, manuscripts and incunabula, and the records of the University. We are open to the public and encourage everyone to utilize these rich collections in their scholarly and creative work. Special Collections also facilitates research and course visits centering our original materials.
Mission
The mission of Special Collections, guided by the mission of the Portland State University Library, is to promote learning and discovery and to advance research and scholarship by collecting, preserving, and, above all, making accessible unique materials deemed to have long-term historical value to Portland State and the greater academic community.
Vision
Special Collections is the home of vibrant original materials that inspire and serve intellectual discovery and the creation of knowledge. Positioned within the heart of the library, Special Collections engages the campus and the surrounding community by providing access to primary resources that enrich all levels of scholarship.