Manuscripts & Rare Books
The Manuscript Section holds over 3 million manuscripts, dating from the earliest years of the state through contemporary times, from over 4,400 different collections. All collections have an Indiana connection, whether the papers are from an Indiana soldier, missionary, church, organization, or business.
Among the collection's strengths are Civil War-era letters and diaries, family papers, and the papers of many political figures from the Hoosier state. Anyone may use the materials housed in the Manuscripts Section. There are rules and regulations for use of materials in the Manuscripts Section.
Locating Materials in the Manuscript Section
There are a number of ways to identify materials which may be of use, including guides such as Eric Pumroy's A Guide to Manuscript Collections of the Indiana Historical Society and Indiana State Library.
- Card catalog. The Manuscript card catalog is available in the Manuscripts Reading Room. Through the card catalog, patrons can identify particular topics (agriculture, the Civil War) or people (Abraham Lincoln, Carole Lombard) and then request the collection identified on the card.
- State Library Catalog. Approximately fifteen percent of the Manuscripts collection may currently be searched in the State Library's OPAC with more records added periodically.
- Finding Aid Index
Other Collection and Online Exhibits
Collections
Online Exhibits
- Centennial Indiana
- Images of Indiana: 92 Counties
- Indiana Civil War Photographs
- Indiana Lawyers and Judges
- Indiana State Fair
- Indianapolis Through Invoices
- Open Air Schools in Indiana
- World War II Exhibit
Information about the Manuscripts Collection
Contact the Manuscript Section
317-232-3671 Reference Desk
317-232-3728 Fax
Hours Open: The Manuscript Section is open Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Saturdays 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., closed on Sundays.
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