Archives & Special Collections
ASK ARCHIVES AND SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
The Robert E. and Jean R. Mahn Center for Archives and Special Collections contains the Ohio University Archives, Rare Books, Manuscript Collections, and the Documentary Photography Archive. The Mahn Center’s mission is to support the education, research, and creative endeavors of Ohio University, our broad community of researchers, and anyone with an interest in the preservation of cultural heritage. For questions about the collections or to request assistance with utilizing primary resources in instruction please contact us.
Using the Collections
The reading room is open to all by appointment:
Monday – Friday 9-12 and 1-4.
Faculty and Students: see the guide to Researching with Archival & Special Collections Primary Source Materials for information about using the collection for assignments and instruction.
Genealogists and Family Researchers: We are happy to provide access to the collections, but we are unable to conduct genealogical and other research for patrons. If you need assistance with genealogical research, contact The Athens County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society at the Southeast Ohio History Center. We will gladly provide them with access to the collections on your behalf.
Please see the Mahn Center Reading Room and Materials Use Policy for more information.
Finding Archives and Special Collections
Many of the Mahn Center collections can be found by searching the ALICE Catalog.
Finding aids for Manuscripts and University Archives can be found by searching the OhioLINK Finding Aid Repository.
Mahn Online
The Digital Archives is continually growing as we develop new projects, respond to patron requests, and acquire new collections. See the Digital Archival Collections Materials Selection and Rights Policy for more information about what we digitize.
Digital Exhibits often feature Mahn Center collections and Ohio University history.
Online Tutorials are created with faculty to support use of Mahn Center collections in the classroom.
The OHIO Archives Blog is where you will find the latest information about new collections, digital projects, and the fantastic work of our student employees and interns.
Robert E. and Jean R. Mahn
The Mahn Center for Archives and Special Collections is named for Robert E. and Jean R. Mahn, whose generous gift continues to provide support for the preservation and access of archives and special collections at Ohio University Libraries.