Department of Library Special Collections

About the Department The Department of Library Special Collections (DLSC) is dedicated to the preservation and appreciation of Kentucky's cultural heritage. It also strives to conserve other rare materials which may enrich researchers. Although each area of the Department differs in types of materials, hours, and accessibility of collections, the mission of serving the University and the general community remains constant. The complementary resources and services of all areas provide researchers, scholars, and visitors with broad-based overview of Kentucky's history, culture, and people. Timothy Mullin, Head Department of Library Special Collections Collecting Kentucky, the Kentucky Library and Museum serves as a time capsule for Kentucky history. Learn more about the Civil War, World War II, Kentucky authors, Mammoth Cave, early university life, Kentucky ancestors, folklore, South Union Shakers and politics. "To enhance an understanding of Kentucky and its people."

History of The Kentucky Building

The Kentucky Building was established by Western Kentucky University's first President, Henry Hardin Cherry "to preserve Kentucky's history and heritage." Over 4,000 Kentuckians provided financial support to begin construction of the Kentucky Building in 1931. After a temporary delay caused by the difficulties of the Depression, the facility opened in 1939 as a permanent home for the growing collection of Kentucky materials and artifacts. In 1976, the Commonwealth of Kentucky provided $3.1 million to remodel and expand the facilities, doubling the size 80,000 square feet and making it accessible to physically challenged visitors.

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Who's Who in Library Special Collections

• Faculty
• Staff
• Organization chart.

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Library & Museum Hours

Kentucky Library
Monday – Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Monday evenings, during the Spring and Fall semester only, until 7:00 p.m. beginning January 28 through May 5

The Kentucky Library will close on Saturday, May 24 (Memorial Day weekend) and July 4 (Independence Day). Please note that the Harrison-Baird Reading Room will be closed May 24 & 26 for Memorial Day weekend.

Kentucky Museum and Museum Store
Monday – Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

The Kentucky Museum will be open on Memorial Day.

The Department of Library Special Collections is open year-round except for University holidays. Appointments are not necessary unless you have special research needs. Class visits and large group tours must be scheduled in advance.

Library Special Collections Phone Numbers

Departmental Office .............	270-745-6258
Education Curator ...............	270-745-6082
Fax .............................	270-745-4878
Folklife Archives ...............	270-745-6434
Kentucky Library Reference ......	270-745-5083
Kentucky Museum .................	270-745-2592
Lobby Desk ......................	270-745-2592
Manuscripts .....................	270-745-6434
Museum Store ....................	270-745-6080
Special Events ....................	270-745-6261 or 270-745-6258
Records Management..........	270-745-4793
University Archives .............	270-745-4793

To locate phone numbers of individuals use the Online WKU Faculty/Staff Directory.

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Calendar of Special Events & Exhibits

Museum Exhibits
Special Events

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