University Archives and Special Collections

Mission

Oakland University Archives and Special Collections supports and advances scholarly and creative research, instruction, and engagement through its unique collections and inclusive services for faculty, students, staff, alumnae, and the general public.

It collects, organizes, preserves, and makes accessible the significant records that chronicle the university’s history as well as original materials on Oakland County history, Civil War history, women’s studies, and other fields that relate to the research and educational endeavors of Oakland University.

To accomplish this mission, the Oakland University Archives and Special Collections will:

• provide the widest possible public access to its unique manuscript collections and rare books.
• organize and preserve for the long term the physical and digital materials in its collections.
• welcome classes in the humanities, social sciences, and the sciences that offer students opportunities to engage with, analyze, interpret, and re-use original historical materials for scholarly and creative endeavors.
• present physical and online exhibits on diverse aspects of the university’s history and participate in university events such as homecoming and alumni reunions.