Special collections
Discover SCAD Libraries special collections that explore the creative process across history and disciplines. From 19th century fashion plates to contemporary artists' books, these collections are curated to support your studies and spark creative inspiration.
Jen Library
Archives and Special Collections
Jen Library Archives and Special Collections house items from across university disciplines showcasing extraordinary creative processes, from original animation artwork to handmade mini-comics and artist books, as well as artifacts from moment-defining fashion, architecture, and photography.
SCAD Library
Special Collections
SCAD Library is home to a leading artist book collection and annual student artist book competition, as well as a rich teaching collection of prints, zines, facsimiles, and more.
SCAD Libraries
Digital Collections
SCAD Libraries Digital Collections provides access to an expanding range of materials from special collections including SCAD Libraries' collection of historic ephemera, other special collections, and graduate theses.
SCAD LUXE
Atlanta and Savannah
Experience luxury of the past and present at SCAD LUXE, unique learning spaces offering students with hands-on opportunities to engage with luxury fashion, accessories, beauty products, and home furnishings.
Explore and engage with special collections
SCAD Libraries' Special Collections house rare, unique, and historically significant materials that inspire creative research, support coursework, and provide hands-on learning opportunities. Whether you're a student, faculty member, or visitor, SCAD Libraries offers tailored services to help you discover and explore these non-circulating collections by appointment.
Visit special collections
SCAD students, faculty, staff, alumni, and external researchers may request individual or group consultations to explore specific items or topics within SCAD Special Collections. Librarians can help identify relevant materials and support research questions rooted in primary and archival sources.
Watch: Special collections workshops
Attend an upcoming workshop or view past workshops to learn about interpretation and archival practices with SCAD Special Collections. Workshops are offered every quarter in person and online.
Apply and expand your skills
Use these library guides to deepen your engagement with SCAD Special Collections. Whether you're exploring primary sources or refining research strategies, these resources provide practical guidance for discovering, evaluating, and utilizing rare and archival materials.
Research support
Explore collections online
Browse SCAD Special Collections materials and a curated list of online resources from other museums, libraries, and archives.
Explore online collection resources
How to search for special collections
Learn how to find special collections materials using the library catalog and search tools, with tips for refining and requesting items.
Primary source literacy
Build skills for evaluating, interpreting, and using primary sources responsibly in creative, academic, and research contexts.
Teaching support
Teaching with special collections
Learn what teaching looks like at SCAD Libraries including instructions in multiple literacy and active learning.
Copyright and the classroom
View guidance on fair use, licensing, and best practices for sharing visual media in teaching, course materials, and presentations.
Book special collections instruction
SCAD faculty are encourage to request instruction sessions with special collections. These sessions are an opportunity for students to engage directly with rare and unique materials, supported by librarians who can tailor collections to course topics, techniques, or themes. Requests should be submitted at least two weeks in advance.
Annual Artists' Book Competition
Showcase your artistry in annual competitions. Each year, SCAD Libraries invites students to redefine the "book" as an art object. Participate for a chance to have your work featured in our permanent collection and win prizes for innovation.
Collections
