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Archives and Special Collections Overview

A brief guide to learn more about Archives and Special Collections.

What is an archives?

An archives is a place where you can find primary and secondary sources. The DePauw University Archives and Special Collections houses historical records about the University, its people, places, events, and etc. It's important to note, the Archives and Special Collections is unique in that it also houses the records of the Indiana United Methodist Church. We work together to preserve information about both institutions and their historic relationship to each other. 

The mission of the Archives and Special Collections is to document the development and growth of DePauw University and the United Methodist Church in Indiana by:

  • collecting primary and secondary resources pertaining to DePauw University and the United Methodist Church;
  • preserving information about both institutions and their historic relationship to each other;
  • and encouraging the use of the Archives and Special Collections resources by the DePauw and United Methodist communities and other interested researchers.


Image: DePauw University Archives & Special Collections Stacks, 2023

What is an archivist?

An archivist is dedicated to preserving and making accessible historical documents to the public. As part of preservation and accessibility, archivists assess, collect, and organize analog and digital records. To learn more about the profession, please visit the Society of American Archivists (SAA) website.