Director's Note

Welcome to Special Collections and University Archives, the division of Stony Brook University Libraries with a leading role in developing and preserving research collections at Stony Brook University. We are excited to launch our new website to enhance discovery and use of our collections of primary sources, rare books, historical maps, and University Archives.  

We provide access to specialized library collections to facilitatenew scholarship and to foster the expansion of knowledge and meaning. We are committed to connecting researchers with our print and digital collections to further learning and intellectual discovery. The diverse scope of collections ranges from local to global.Spy letters written by George Washington during the American Revolution. A history of the world published in 1493. One of the first maps depicting Long Island as an island.Illuminated manuscripts crafted in the 11th century. Photographs of Stony Brook’s original train station. 

We are here to help our students at Stony Brook and from outside insitutions. Our website includes a sectiondedicated to students offering guidance and suggesting practical tips for embarking on research with primary sources. We sponsor experiential learning opportunities throughinternships (EXT 488), along with special collections-basedclass sessions and individual research consultations. 

Engagement and outreach are paramount to us. Each semester we organize, host, and collaborate on programming including the University Art Crawl and CommUniversity Day. In the wider community, our rare books and documents are exhibited at esteemed museums and historical societies. Annual events include exclusive tours for SBU alumni returning for their 50th class reunion and Culper Spy Day, which has grown from a local to a regional initiative in just a few short years. Please consult ourcalendar of events andnews posts to learn more.

We strive to provide excellent research experiences. Reference services are extended to the Stony Brook University community and beyond. Students, faculty, community members, scholars, and remote users are all welcome to pursue their research interests through Special Collections and University Archives. We invite you to begin your research with us.

Sincerely,

Kristen J. Nyitray
Director, Special Collections & University Archives
University Archivist