Visit Special Research Collections

Information

There are eight Special Research Collections housed on the 5th floor of Bizzell Memorial Library: The American School of Architecture Archive, Chinese Literature Translation Archive, Harry W. Bass Business History Collection, History of Science Collections, John and Mary Nichols Rare Books & Special Collections, University Archives, Western History Collections, and William Bennett Bizzell Bible Collection. To visit, use the west side stairs or elevators (closest to the Loveridge Computer Lab) to the 5th floor.

Appointments are required for in-person research to ensure materials are onsite for your visit. Some items require 48 hours' notice for delivery. Please see the Research Services page for information about researching at Special Research Collections.

Tours and Group Visits

We are happy to coordinate tours or group visits to Special Research Collections. We host local and national groups, and our schedule fills up quickly. Advanced notice of tour groups is required. Please contact us [insert LibAnswers form] to schedule a tour or group visit. Please contact us to schedule a tour or group visit.

Featured Special Research Collections Spaces

Duane H. D. Roller Reading Room

The reading room is for users and researchers who will be viewing Special Research Collections materials. The reading room is not open to general visitors.

Reference Nook

Our reading nook contains a browsable reference section for the History of Science Collections, Western History Collections, and University Archives. There is also a children’s books section that covers a variety of topics in history and science.

Mary R. Murphy and Walter H. Murphy Exhibit Hall

Our exhibit hall houses a display of items from each of our collecting areas.

The Barbara Brite Paul Grand Foyer

The 5th floor foyer houses many unique items such as the History of Science Screen, the Scientific Instrument Collection, and many display cases featuring collections materials.

FAQ

Are food and drinks allowed?

Visitors may not consume food and drinks in the Special Research Collections except at special events. Visitors may store their food or drinks in lockers near the elevators.

How can I view the William Bennett Bizzell Bible collection in the Gaylord Room?

The Gaylord Room is currently closed to the public. The curatorial team offers occasional tours of the Bizzell Bible Collection. Contact us for more information about these tours.

How do I book tours or non-OU affiliated class visits?

We offer tours and welcome non-OU affiliated class visits. Please use the contact form to book a tour. Our calendar fills up quickly with classes and tours in our spaces, so please reach out well in advance.

Where can I find information about visiting campus, campus maps, and parking?

Google Maps Driving Directions to Bizzell Memorial Library

OU Campus Map

Parking on Campus

Visit Campus

Can I study in the Roller Reading Room?

The Roller Reading Room is limited to users and researchers viewing Special Research Collections materials. Individual and group study areas are available in other areas of Bizzell Memorial Library. See the Rooms & Spaces page for available spaces.