Welcome to the library: Special collections

Myshara Whittington

Anchor Contributor

I have another department to introduce to you: Special collections. This department is small but mighty with three main staff members and many physical and digital records to keep track of. So, let’s dive in. 

The special collections department in James Adams Library contains archival records. Archives consist of rare, unique and historical materials. In the physical collection (special collections) and digital (digital initiatives) there are materials you won’t find anywhere else. Our Special Collections contain records about people, businesses and organizations in Rhode Island. We have records of RIC organizations and general organizations. Our most popular collections are the Cape Verdean Collection, Portuguese in Archives and Political Archives. Have you ever been curious about what the college yearbooks looked like back in 1933? Or maybe you are interested in Cape Verdean American history and want to listen to personal stories of immigrants? We have you covered.   

The library’s digital archivist and special collections librarian, Veronica Denison, manages this department. Overall, she manages the archives, staff and relationships with those who donate materials to the archive. She also teaches classes and provides research services. Many people such as faculty, staff and the public wish to donate items. Veronica talks to donors to see if their items fit into the collection and abide by the acquisition and digital collections policies. If so, the donated items are added to our collection for everyone to see.  

Anne Boylan is the special collections assistant. She arranges and describes collections which make the materials accessible as possible to all researchers. She occasionally assists Veronica with class visits.  

Andrew Davis is our digital initiatives coordinator. He takes care of all things digital initiatives such as electronic theses, dissertations and other electronic materials. Do you have specific questions about Digital Initiatives? Feel free to reach out to Andrew Davis at adavis@ric.edu. 

Special collections and digital initiatives gives RIC students and faculty access to one-of-a-kind materials. If your professor has ever asked you to look for primary sources, special collections is where you want to go. If you would like to book a visit for research help, please book an appointment by contacting Veronica Denison at vdenison@ric.edu.