Manuscripts & Rare Books
The Manuscript Collection holds over 3 million manuscripts, dating from the earliest years of the state through contemporary times, from over 4,400 different collections. All collections have an Indiana connection, whether the papers are from an Indiana soldier, missionary, church, organization, or business.
Among the collection's strengths are Civil War-era letters and diaries, family papers, and the papers of many political figures from the Hoosier state. Anyone may use the materials housed in the Manuscripts Collection (see rules and regulations for use of materials).
Locating Materials in the Manuscript Collection
- Collection List List of all manuscript collections
- Finding Aid Index Guides to specific manuscript collections
- State Library Catalog Approximately fifteen percent of the Manuscripts collection may currently be searched in the State Library's OPAC with more records added periodically.
- Card Catalog The Manuscript card catalog is available in the Manuscripts Reading Room. Through the card catalog, patrons can identify particular topics (agriculture, the Civil War) or people (Abraham Lincoln, Carole Lombard) and then request the collection identified on the card.
Other Collection and Online Exhibits
Collections
Online Exhibits
- Centennial Indiana
- Images of Indiana: 92 Counties
- Indiana Civil War Photographs
- Indiana Lawyers and Judges
- Indiana State Fair
- Indianapolis Through Invoices
- Open Air Schools in Indiana
- World War II Exhibit
Information about the Manuscripts Collection
Contact the Manuscript Section
317-232-3671 Reference Desk
317-232-3728 Fax
Hours: The Manuscript & Rare Books Collection is open Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Saturdays 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., closed on Sundays.
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