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RMIT University Library Special Collection

Find information on how to use the Library's Special Collection.

Request access

Request an appointment: Complete the Special Collection Appointment Form (opens in a new window).

What items are included in the Special Collection?

A view of the Special Collection room at the Swanston library.

Image: Copyright © 2025 RMIT University. Is provided under CC-BY-NC-4.0.

The Library's Special Collection is home to:

  • Material relating to the history and development of RMIT University Library and its collections
  • Items published before 1900
  • Outstanding examples of book production, such as significant illustrative or other graphic material
  • Items of high cost and/or high value 
  • Limited editions of not more than 100 copies
  • Items with significant provenance (history or ownership)
  • Irreplaceable material
  • Artists' books
  • Vulnerable resources

Collection strengths

The Library's Special Collection represents particular strengths within:

  • Architecture (prefix: SPE ARC)
  • Art (prefix: SPE ART)
  • Cookery & Home Economics (prefix: SPEC MAC)
  • Fashion & Textiles (prefix: SPE FAS)
  • Chiropractic & Osteopathy (prefix: SPE OST)
  • Printing (prefix: SPE PRI)

To view the layout of the Special Collection room, please refer to the map below: