Welcome to Special Collections, the library division that plays a leading role in developing and preserving research collections at Stony Brook University. We are excited to launch our new website, designed to enhance discovery and access to our collections of primary sources, rare books, historical maps, and university history.
We provide access to specialized library collections to facilitate new scholarship and foster the expansion of knowledge and meaning. We are committed to connecting researchers with our print and digital resources to support learning and intellectual discovery. Our diverse holdings span local to global history and include spy letters written by George Washington during the American Revolution; a history of the world published in 1493; one of the first maps depicting Long Island as an island; illuminated manuscripts crafted in the 12th century; and photographs of Stony Brook’s original train station.
Engagement and outreach are central to our mission. Each semester, we organize, host, and collaborate on programs such as the University Art Crawl and CommUniversity Day. In the broader community, our rare books and documents are exhibited at esteemed museums and historical societies. Annual events include exclusive tours for SBU alumni returning for their 50th class reunion and Culper Spy Day, which has grown from a local initiative into a regional tradition in just a few short years.
We strive to provide excellent research experiences. Our reference services are available to the Stony Brook University community and beyond. Students, faculty, community members, scholars, and remote users are all welcome to explore their research interests through Special Collections. We invite you to conduct your research with us.
Kristen J. Nyitray
Director, Special Collections & University Archives
University Archivist