Special Collections
Special Collections acquires, processes, catalogs, preserves, and digitizes primary resources and published (printed) materials, many of which are unique, chiefly to support the teaching, research, and scholarly mission of University of Central Florida. The print collection comprises over 22,000 loose and bound prints of unique and rare books ranging in date from the sixteenth century to the present. Special Collections has over 160 manuscript collections containing original personal and organizational papers, correspondence, family papers, maps, photographs, oral histories and ephemera.
Major Collecting Areas
Books or book-like objects created by artists as works of art. Also includes fine press books and periodicals, ephemera, and monographs related to book arts, bookbinding, papermaking, and printing.
Publications, manuscript materials, maps, ephemera, images, and fine art documenting the history, economy, and inhabitants of Florida and especially Central Florida, from the 1800s to present day.
Photographs, prints, books, documents, reports, technical manuals, memorabilia, objects, public relation and press materials all related to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
Published and archival materials documenting the history of tourism in Florida and its economic impact on the state. Includes materials about Central Florida’s numerous theme parks and attractions.
Other Collecting Areas
University Archives
The University Archives, housed with the Special Collections, holds publications, records, photographs and other materials on the University of Central Florida, formerly Florida Technological University from its beginnings in 1963 to the current day. Materials are selected, preserved, and made accessible for their enduring historical and administrative value to the University. These records may be paper-based, or in other formats such as digital files, photographs, audio, or film; they are appraised for their content.
Official records from the office of the president, provost, registrar, and other governing bodies of the university, as well as academic departments. Includes college publications.
Material from alumni, faculty, and staff and their organizations, including organizational records, publications, and ephemera.
Collections mainly comprised of images and audio/video recordings, such as posters, photo albums, renderings, oral histories, film reels, and audiotapes.
Material related to the founding of UCF (formerly FTU), development of the University, and histories about traditions and campus activities.
Official records from the athletics department and other collections related to campus sports. Includes scrapbooks, media guides, game programs, and memorabilia.
Records of student organizations, student publications, and other materials that document the UCF student experience.
View Collections Containing:
Unprocessed Collections are also available for research and may not be available for immediate access. Staff may review materials for sensitive and private information such as social security numbers and medical records. Please contact Special Collections & University Archives staff before visiting.
Monographs and serials are catalogued and can be searched using the Library’s Online Catalog. Manuscript collections can be searched using the ArchivesSpace.