The Western History Collections at the University of Oklahoma Libraries is undergoing a professional preservation treatment for resources it houses. Some resources may be unavailable during this process, which is scheduled through the rest of 2023 and possibly into the beginning of 2024.
Our collection catalog records and archival finding aids have been updated to reflect the specific assets that will be unavailable during this period. Please contact westernhistorycollections@ou.edu with any questions.
More information on the preservation project:
The Libraries has launched the first phase of a multi-phase project to conduct professional preservation treatment for collection resources in the Western History Collections.During Phase 1:
a third-party preservation firm will be transporting over 3,600 linear feet of collection assets offsite to a secure, environmentally controlled facility where materials will be meticulously and thoroughly cleaned and rehoused. Once this work is completed, materials will be delivered back to University Libraries to be stored in environmentally stable, secure library facilities.
Western History Collections will remain open to the public and maintain services supporting collection access, consultation, and instruction. However, a significant portion of the collection will be unavailable to researchers throughout the duration of this phase of the project.
Phase 1 of the project will likely extend through calendar year 2023 and possibly the beginning of 2024.
Please be advised that this work will have a significant, temporary impact on the Libraries’ availability to deliver research services and instructional services at Western History Collections regarding certain collection materials, research topics, and subject matter.
University Libraries appreciates your patience as we work to ensure the long-term preservation of these invaluable resources. This project will ensure that these distinctive and irreplaceable collections are available for generations of researchers to come and that the histories and heritages of our campus, local, and regional communities remain thoroughly preserved.
