The Special Collections Handbook

This comprehensive and no-nonsense guide to working with special collections and rare books is an essential day-to-day companion.

Working with special collections can vary dramatically from preserving a single rare book to managing and digitising vast mixed-media archives yet the role of the information professional is always critical in tapping into the potential of these collections, protecting their legacy and bringing them to the attention of the wider public. Whether you are working alone or in a team of 20 this handbook can guide you through the essential skills and processes and highlight common problems, solutions and best practice. International case studies in each chapter drawn from a variety of sectors offer an insight into how real people have dealt with challenges in practice.

Each chapter tackles a different aspect of your work, helping you to;

understand the surrounding law and ethics, including copyright issues

develop effective preservation standards and practice

use the relevant cataloguing systems and standards

reach your audience, market your collection, and use social media to improve access

develop effective fundraising and advocacy efforts

manage acquisitions and donors in line with collection development strategy

rethink and develop effective spaces and user services

manage your staff, train paraprofessionals and improve your skills and training.

Readership: This is the essential practical guide for anyone working with special collections or rare books in libraries, archives, museums, galleries and other heritage organisations. It is also a useful introduction to special collections work for academics and students taking library and information courses.