Special Collections Department
Special Collections Department - Department Information - News and Events
News and Events
February 2013
Change in Public Hours
Beginning Monday, February 11, 2013, The Special Collections Department will be open Monday-Friday, 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
January 2013
The Special Collections Department Will Reopen January 9, 2013
The Special Collections Department will reopen on January 9, 2013 at 9:00 a.m. If you have any questions, please e-mail us at archives@iastate.edu.
December 2012
The Special Collections Department Will be Closed Until Further
The Special Collections Department will be closed to the public until further notice. If you have any questions, please e-mail us at archives@iastate.edu.
The Special Collections Department Will be Closed December 22, 2012 - January 1, 2013
The ISU Library will be closed December 21-January 1 for the winter break. Since the Library will be closed, the Special Collections Department will also be closed during this period. We will be unable to answer reference questions until we return on January 2, 2013. If you have any questions, please e-mail us at archives@iastate.edu.
February 2012
New Classroom for Special Collections and Preservation
On Oct. 22, 2010, the Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust awarded a grant of $137,150 to the Iowa State University (ISU) Library to create a technology rich classroom optimized for instruction related to the Library's Special Collections and Preservation programs. The classroom also includes two wall-mounted 60-inch LCD flat-screen panels at the front of the room. Information can be displayed from a variety of input devices, including computers, Blueray/DVD, and digital presenters. The classroom is equipped with ceiling-mounted webcams, microphones, and a speakerphone to support video conferencing and lecture capture. A passive speaker system is available to help ensure all students can hear the instruction. Power outlets have been installed around the perimeter of the room for plugging in laptops and other mobile devices, and high-speed wireless access is available. All key technology components can be controlled from the presenter's podium. These instructional technology elements combine to provide the Library a new learning space that is suited for a variety of teaching and learning styles, ranging from lecture to small groups.
The new classroom, which opened in the Fall, 2011, measures roughly 19 by 35 feet (665 square feet), and provides seating for up to 35 students. Throughout the design process, the new classroom was envisioned as a space to support collaborative learning by providing for flexible groups of students. As such, the room is furnished with 10 collapsible tables that can be easily rearranged or removed, and lightweight but durable chairs that likewise can be reconfigured and/or nested for storage. Since its opening, Special Collections has used the classroom for a wide variety of visiting classes and groups, including ISU's Honors Program and Horticulture Learning Community, National History Day students, and classes in English, Higher Education, and History. Both as a venue for face-to-face instruction and as a teaching laboratory space, this classroom greatly enhances the Department's ability to support teaching, learning, research, and outreach using its rare and unique collections.
For information regarding previous news and events, please visit our Past News and Events page.