Special Collections Located with the Archives since 1987, the special collections include Methodist publications, faculty and alumni publications, state and local history, the Governor James C. Whitcomb Library, Indiana Journalism Hall of Fame Records, Society of Professional Journalists Records, Audrey Knowlton World War Pamphlets and the Brett Harte first editions collection. Certain books of high monetary value, in poor condition or representing early printing history are also part of special collections. The purpose of preserving resources in the Archives and Special Collections is to make them available to researchers interested in DePauw University, the United Methodist Church and the special collections. Researchers include students, faculty, staff and alumni, ministers, church historians, genealogists and other interested persons. Students make extensive use of the materials in the Archives and Special Collections for papers, speeches, news articles and other projects.
All original collections are non-circulating.
However, microfilm copies available for some collections may be borrowed through inter-library loan and copy facilities are available in the library. Other Archives and Special Collections resources are available for use in the Worth M. Tippy Reading Room. Research services are available on a fee basis. While telephone and mail inquiries are welcome, researchers are encouraged to visit the Archives and Special Collections where experienced staff are available to provide assistance. The Archives and Special Collections staff is also available for consultation on matters of preservation and arrangement of records within the local church.