The Rare Book Collections’ primary strengths are in literature, the material culture of the book and printing, and aspects of American and world history. This includes graphic design, book arts, children’s literature, movable books, miniature books, printed works of art, and manuscript collections related to subjects in the Rare Book Collections.

Books Repatriated to the Státní židovské muzeum (Czech Republic)

Books that were stolen from the Prager Israelitische Cultus-Gemeinde Bibliothek and have been returned to the Státní židovské muzeum (Czech Republic) in August 2022. The books are part of the Shimeon Brisman Collection in Jewish Studies. 

Declaration of Independence

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence and created the United States of America. Printers throughout the new states worked swiftly to create copies of the Declaration and spread the news. Rare Books includes two of the earliest printed broadsides of the Declaration of Independence.

De Memoria

Or Tractatus clarissimi philosophi et medici Matheoli perusini de memoria augenda per regulas et medicinas. An early printed treatise on memory.

Saul, A Poem: Manuscript

Robert Browning's dramatic monologue poem, Saul, with illumination and calligraphy by Phoebe Anna Traquair.

Shimeon Brisman Collection in Jewish Studies

The Brisman Collection includes bibliographic works, modern Yiddish prose and poetry, rabbinical commentary, and liturgical literature spanning from the 16th to 20th century. The items capture Jewish history, culture, and thought.

Selected Materials from Rare Books

Browse additional selected items from the Rare Book collections.