Special Collections staff offer several types of instruction services including subject-specific instruction, curriculum support, customized courses, and presentations. Faculty are encouraged to bring classes for instruction in the use of historical materials, primary source resources, and to utilize the unique holdings of our collections for research purposes.

A class in Special Collections provides a tangible experience of history and adds depth to almost any course. Let us give your students hands-on access to our most unique collections, and they will learn primary research skills, including the ability to track down sources, make connections among documents, and examine physical evidence. Most importantly, they will discover an enthusiasm and engagement with their subject that will take their studies far beyond their textbooks.

Special Collections will tailor your instruction session(s) to meet your course or assignment needs.  We offer instruction in a variety of subjects and will work with you to identify collections and items most relevant to your curricular needs.   We can provide a one-time session or presentation and can also work with you to provide multi-session, customized courses.

Sample instruction topics include:

• Medieval and early manuscript production and illustration
• History of printing and book production
• Book arts
• William Stafford studies
• Oregon history
• Lewis & Clark expedition
• Literary Landscapes
• Religion in the Northwest
• History of photography
• Gender studies
• Pacifism

For more information about working with Special Collections, utilizing materials for your classes, or to schedule a class session please contact us at archives@lclark.edu.