Archives, sometimes called archival repositories, contain one-of-a-kind materials, for example: diaries, letters, photographs, maps, drawings, etc.) that are preserved because these materials have long-term value for research.

Learn more about Archives at Rensselaer

Learn more via the Society of American Archivists

A Special Collection is a group of items, such as rare books or documents, that are unique and irreplaceable. Often a repository will specialize in a limited number of subject areas for their special collections, to distinguish the institution from other Archives.

Learn more about Rensselaer's Collections

The Guide to Institute Records and Manuscripts, Faculty and Alumni biographical files, miscellaneous subject files, course catalogs, annual reports, faculty papers, alumni papers and organizational records are all examples of archival material found at Rensselaer.

Learn how to:

• Cite archival sources
• Read a finding aid
• Identify Primary and Secondary Sources

External archival materials

Lists of databases and other useful sources to search for archival materials outside of Rensselaer.