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Cambridge University Library's Special Collections are one of the world's most important collections of global documentary cultural heritage. They include the oldest and most valuable materials in the Library, in manuscript, printed and artefact form, as well as modern maps and music. The oldest inscribed item in the collection is a
Sumerian clay tablet
with lines of text in cuneiform script, dated to ca 2200 BCE.
All readers are welcome to
visit Special Collections
to consult our collections.
We are committed to using Special Collections to support research and teaching, and to developing digital services in partnership with
Cambridge Digital Library
Cambridge Digital Humanities
and others to make the collections openly accessible to the widest possible audience in new and innovative ways. At the same time, we recognise the enduring importance of the physical collections. Our
Conservation and Collection Care Department
plays a vital role in preserving this unique cultural heritage, ensuring its continued care and accessibility for future generations.
Exhibitions, talks and activities are held year-round as part of our programme of public events: for more information see the Library’s
What’s On
guide. Additional events are run by the
Cambridge Bibliographical Society
. Items from the collections are showcased as part of
Cambridge Digital Library
. We also welcome
enquiries
concerning the loan of Special Collections material for external exhibitions.
You can keep up with the latest news and events on our
Special Collections blog
or by following us on Bluesky
@theulspeccoll.bsky.social
In 2020 the Special Collections were awarded Designated status by the Arts Council England. The Designation scheme identifies the pre-eminent collections of national importance held in England’s non-national museums, libraries and archives, based on their quality and significance.
Image credit: Crested white bird on snow-laden camellia branch. F
rom
Shi zhu zhai shu hua pu
(FH.910.83–98, p. 11),
the earliest Chinese book printed by the technique of polychrome xylography known as
douban
Special Collections Reading Room Contact Details
Special Collections Reader Services
Cambridge University Library
West Road
Cambridge CB3 9DR
Email:
specialcollections@lib.cam.ac.uk
Related links
Bluesky:
@theulspeccoll.bsky.social
Instagram:
cambridgeuniversitylibrary
Special Collections blog
Cambridge University Library exhibitions
Cambridge Digital Library
Cambridge University Library, West Road, Cambridge CB3 9DR, UK
Email:
library@lib.cam.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0) 1223 333000
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