Due to security upgrades, we will no longer support Internet Explorer version 8 or older. Please use a newer browser.
Archives and Special Collections are open by appointment only, limited to UMN affiliates. Appointments must be made one week in advance of your visit. Contact ascref@umn.edu or the curator of the collecting area you wish to use for assistance. We continue to provide scans of requested research materials when possible, especially for our non-campus clientele.
Welcome to the Children's Literature Research Collections
The Children's Literature Research Collections (CLRC) is an internationally recognized children's literature library and archive. A member of the University of Minnesota Libraries' Archives and Special Collections department (ASC), we hold books, manuscripts, illustrations, comic books, story papers, and other materials related to the creation of historical and modern children's literature, including archival materials and original artwork for 1700 authors and illustrators. For information on upcoming events hosted by the CLRC, see Events and News.
The ABC of It: Why Children's Books Matter
Did you miss the exhibit at the CLRC this spring? Experience it at your own home with the exhibit guide!
For fourteen months beginning in June 2013, the New York Public Library hosted an exhibition about the role of children’s books in world culture and in our lives. Now with this book, a collaboration between the University of Minnesota’s Kerlan Collection of Children’s Literature and children’s literature historian Leonard Marcus, the nostalgia and vision of that exhibit can be experienced anywhere.
Visit our Publishing Services page to download a copy of the guide or for more information on puchasing a print copy.
Search the Collections:
Archival collection guides
Use collection guides (or finding aids) that describe a collection of archival records, personal papers, or manuscripts to locate material for your research. The guide may be a brief summary or a detailed description and inventory.
Images & more
Search digitized images, maps, films and videos, audio tapes, rare volumes and publications, and select items from archival collections.
Libraries catalog
Explore the University of Minnesota Libraries catalog for information about rare and special books, periodicals, and other publications held by the Children's Literature Research Collections.
The Blue Ox Review
Check out the curator's latest reviews and blog posts!
