Beyond the Reading Room

Unlock an insider’s view of Spencer Research Library. As part of American Archives Month, these special tours offer a rare look at the tucked away spaces, specialized labs, and expert work that preserves history and supports research at KU.

Each half hour tour meets at 1 p.m. at the Spencer Library 3rd floor registration desk. Space is limited, and registration is required.

Oct. 8, Digital Lab: Learn how artifacts of the past are given digital life, so that anyone with an internet connection can access rare and unique materials. Come see what we capture in the dark.

Oct. 15, Stacks Flashlight Tour: Step beyond the public areas of Spencer Library, for special access to the library’s closed stacks. Experience the maze of amazing materials and learn how staff preserve, organize, and make them available.

Oct. 22, Conservation Lab: Time leaves its mark on every collection. Visit Conservation Services’ book and paper lab to see how specialists repair, preserve, and protect books, manuscripts, maps, and more, while learning how you can safeguard your own collections.

Oct. 29, Manuscripts Processing: Come experience the papers of Elliott O’Donnell, “The Sherlock Holmes of the Ghost World.” Interact with materials about O’Donnell’s supernatural investigations and learn how Manuscripts Processing is preparing to unleash this collection upon the world.

Remember, Spencer Research Library’s Reading Room, collections, and exhibits are open to everyone. Learn more or plan your visit via the library’s homepage.

Spencer Research Library is located directly behind Strong Hall.