Papers Panel: Does Distinctive Mean Diverse?: Exploring the Convergence of Special and Area Studies Collections

Abstract

Many in our profession are aware of the trend to bring special and area studies collections together in large, research libraries, sometimes under the umbrella of “distinctive collections,” because of their administrative affinities. Library scholars and practitioners have written about the growing importance of rare and unique collections to the identity of academic libraries as the increased availability of electronic resources creates a sense of homogenization across their general collections. Area studies collections by their very nature bring an international perspective and a diversity of cultures into library collections. How have special collections and archives taken advantage of these partnerships to approach diversity in new ways?

Moderator: Jae Jennifer Rossman, Director, Dept. of Area Studies & Humanities Research Support, Yale University