Welcome
From Chaucer to Star Wars, the Rare Books and Manuscripts Collection is comprised of more than 34,000 rare items, spanning 40 centuries, that are unique in size (some small enough to fit in the palm of your hand), format, fragility, age and controversial subjects.
Collections of note
Doris and Marc Patten Herbal Collection
A collection of books with illustrations documenting the history of plant medicinal use, gardening techniques and the field of botany from 1485-1935.
Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood Collection
Featuring every book published by the Kelmscott Press, original correspondence of Dante Gabriel and William Michael Rossetti, and wallpaper and fabric samples designed by William Morris. The Nicholas A. Salerno Literary Papers contain resources on Pre-Raphaelites and Victorian-era authors, artists and poets, and the publisher Thomas Bird Mosher.
Civic Classics Collection
First editions, some inscribed, of classic works of leadership in America’s civic and political life – including The Federalist (1788) and writings by Frederick Douglass, Susan B. Anthony and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Created through a partnership between the School of Civic and Economic Thought and Leadership and ASU Library, with funds by a special appropriation from the Arizona government.
Artists' Books
Small-print publications created as works of art, exemplifying the importance of collaboration between writer, artist, papermaker and printer.
The Nicholas A. Salerno Star Wars Collection
Publicity materials and merchandising products from 1976 through 2005, mostly documenting the original three Star Wars films.
Twentieth Century Authors
Featuring the personal papers of William Burroughs, Rubén Darío and Alan Dean Foster.
Eugene D. Valentine Pop-Up Book Collection
Over 600 toy and movable books in different formats and on different subjects, created for both children and adult audiences.
Performing Arts Collections
The personal papers of actor Peter Lawford and film columnist Jimmy Starr are among several collections documenting the history of American film, theatre and television.
Information
Access the collection
Materials in this collection can be viewed by appointment in the Wurzburger Reading Room at Hayden Library (rm. 138). Please make an appointment at least five business days prior to your visit by contacting Ask an Archivist or call 480-965-4932 for more information.