Ceiling vaulting, indirect lighting, wall sconces, and a large stained glass window complement the furnishings and add visual interest to the room. Scope and Mission of Special Collections Special Collections contains a wide range of unique and valuable monographs, manuscripts, photographs, periodicals, videotapes, and artifacts. These materials document the legal history and activities of lawyers in Europe, Great Britain, Mexico, the United States, and Texas. In addition, many of these works remain useful in the contemporary study and practice of law. The mission of Special Collections is to promote access to these resources by preserving them in a safe and secure environment, by helping researchers locate and use the materials, and by promoting awareness through exhibits, tours, and other outreach activities.
Access is supported by entries in the library's electronic catalog for portions of the collection.
The rare book collection includes early editions of fundamental works such as those written by Blackstone, Coke, Justinian, and Selden. The collection has grown through purchases and by gifts from law professors, alumni, and others who have an interest in The South Texas College of Law. Today, the collection spans American, English, Mexican, Roman, Scottish, and Texan law. The Special Collections Department maintains manuscript collections of individuals integral to our College's development, including Judge Spurgeon Bell, Dean Garland Walker, Dean Edgar E. Townes, and Dean and former Judge Sam Streetman. Other collections include the papers of Charles Fairman, former Professor of Law at Stanford and Harvard Law Schools, and a noted scholar on American Constitutional history and the U.S. Supreme Court.