Special Collections and University Archives

Towson University Special Collections and University Archives collects, preserves, and shares documents, photographs, and artifacts of permanent, historical value produced or received by TU.

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What we collect

The Towson University Special Collections and University Archives (SCUA) has five primary collecting areas: Towson University history, Jewish Studies, Performing Arts, World War II, and the History of Education in Maryland. The SCUA collects materials regardless of format, including official university records, manuscript collections, rare books, artifacts, and digital materials. Our collections are continuously growing, so be sure to look for updates about what’s new on our blog.

What we offer

The SCUA is a distinctive and valuable research resource comprised principally of one-of-a-kind primary sources and historic materials that possess enduring value. The resource is open to all TU community members, as well as researchers around the world. Our department offers research assistance, a reading room equipped with research stations, instruction sessions, internships, exhibits, and community partnerships.

In these historic archives, you may encounter words, images or other language used that were reflective of the tenor of our nation, and thus university, at that time in history. Those images may be disturbing and offensive, as they reflect the prejudice of the time. However, they do not reflect Towson University’s values and our commitment toward building a welcoming, diverse and inclusive campus that supports all the members of our community to thrive, regardless of their race, religion, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or levels of ableness.

Collecting areas

  • University History

    Records that provide information about the history, development, and social interactions of the university community.

  • Jewish Studies

    Materials pertaining to Jewish culture and religion, including rare books, artifacts, and manuscripts within the Baltimore Hebrew Institute Collection.

  • Performing Arts

    Collections pertaining to performing arts, with emphasis on local performing arts and student, faculty, and alumni specializing in theatre, music, and dance.

  • World War II

    Collections pertaining to World War II, including soldiers’ experiences, the home front, the Nuremburg Trials, and the Holocaust.

  • History of Education in Maryland

    Collections pertaining to the development of public K-12 education in Maryland.

Meet our staff