The Rare Books & Manuscripts division at the Indiana State Library is dedicated to preserving and making accessible the history of Indiana with collections ranging from the early 15th century to present day.

The Rare Books and Manuscripts Division includes over 3 million manuscripts; 5,200 collections, ranging from the early 15th century to present day. Among the collection’s strengths are Civil War-era letters and diaries, family papers and the records of many political figures from the Hoosier state. We provide reference services, instructional sessions, scanning and photocopying services, finding aids, and a variety of digital resources.

Appointments are not required but are strongly recommended in order to reduce wait times while material is being paged. To make an appointment, please email manuscripts@library.in.gov or use the contact info below.

For more information about viewing Rare Books and Manuscripts material, please refer to our Rules Governing the Use of Manuscripts.                                                                                                                 Contact Information: Victoria Duncan vduncan@library.in.gov

Please contact Rare Books and Manuscripts at manuscripts@library.in.gov or 317-232-3671 if you wish to donate to the collection.