Opening a magic door : the educational use of special collections in New Zealand libraries

Abstract

Special collections in libraries contain a rich variety of resources, from manuscripts and early printed books to photographs and maps. The educational potential of special collections is recognised, and is being developed further as teachers explore ways to give students experience with primary sources, historical documents and early texts. There was very little documentation available on how the special collections in New Zealand libraries are being used to further educational goals.The study used an ethnographic, interpretivist framework to survey library staff in libraries holding special collections, and university academics teaching in humanities subjects. Online questionnaires were used to gather quantitative and qualitative data about patterns of teaching activity, resources and attitudes to the use of special collections within university, public, national and museum libraries.It was found that New Zealand special collections library staff are leading and supporting a range of educational activities including classes and exhibitions. Some university teachers are finding useful resources in these collections and are designing hands-on assignments for their students in the library. Library staff would like to be able to offer more educational opportunities but are hampered by having insufficient staffing levels and funding. University teachers would appreciate improved intellectual access to special collection items in their subject areas, and more liaison over collection development.