Kelvin Smith Library Special Collections is the repository for the archives and papers of institutions and individuals representing such diverse subject areas as literary manuscripts, the history of science and technology, the history of Cleveland Public Housing and fine and performing arts.
Browse ArchivesSpace, for finding aids describing our manuscript and autograph collections.
Make a request to view Special Collections materials by appointment or make a photoduplication request by logging in or creating an Aeon account.
View digitized Special Collections materials in Digital Case.
Introduce special collections, archives, primary sources, and their use with modules available through KSL’s Instruction Hub.
Reading room appointments are required to use special collections materials to ensure adequate time for retrieval and availability of the reading room. All are welcome to make appointments using Aeon, our online request system. Appointments to use special collections materials are available Monday - Friday 10am - 12 noon and 1:00 - 4:30pm. All patrons must abide by Special Collections Policies.
We can be reached by phone at 216-368-0189 and by email kslspecialcollections@case.edu.
Our current exhibit, The Cleveland Salon, 1920-1924 features work from painter William Sommer, poet Hart Crane, architect William Lescaze, and theater designer Richard Rychtarik. This exhibit shows how these artists influenced each other and their impact on national and international style. This exhibit features items from the library's Hart Crane Collection and items from the collection of the exhibit's curator, Lawrence Waldman, Ph.D.
Exhibits in the Henry R. Hatch Reading Room change regularly. Visitors are welcome and encouraged to view exhibits during open hours. Please see the KSL Exhibit Program page to view our digital exhibits and learn more about what you see on display in the reading room and elsewhere within the library.