GSLIS, in partnership with the Rare Book and Manuscript Library and the Soybean Press of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, has developed the Midwest Book and Manuscript Studies (MBMS) program to offer a series of courses and workshops focused on special collections and the book arts. Drawing on leaders in the field as instructors, these programs cover a variety of topics concerning (1) the history of manuscripts and books, addressing the unique skills and approaches to maintaining all types of special collections, and (2) preserving the fine art of bookmaking, including bookbinding, paper making, and letterpress printing.

Current Offerings

Certificate in Special Collections

The Certificate in Special Collections is a 12-credit-hour graduate certificate open to library and information science professionals and students who want to develop expertise in special collections librarianship and to other professionals interested in developing or enhancing their knowledge of special collections.

Summer Intensives

One and two-week summer intensive courses on rare books, manuscripts, and special collections are available on a graduate credit (2 credit hours), continuing education credit, or non-credit basis and open to students, library and information professionals, and book lovers of all types.

Book Arts and Preservation Workshops

Our one and two-day book arts and preservation workshops are open to all interested in the traditional crafts involved in making books by hand and in preservation topics.

Apprentice Spotlight

Preserving Hollywood at the American Film Institute: Spotlight on Ziba Zehdar

Jun. 27, 2012

MBMS Spotlight: Ziba Zehdar

“Working in an archive and using my special collections skills and knowledge is like being a detective, investigating the story of a life once lived.”

When Ziba Zehdar (MS ’12) goes to work at her practicum, every day is a small brush with fame. Combining her lifetime love of libraries with a background in film and media studies, Ziba puts her special collections certificate and GSLIS education to use at the American Film Institute’s (AFI) Louis B. Mayer Library in Los Angeles, California.

Previously Featured:

Embracing special collections at the Newberry: Spotlight on Maggie Cusick (Mar. 5, 2012)

'Every day is a new discovery:' Cataloging rare books at St. Andrews (Aug. 1, 2011)

'An interesting challenge:' Spotlight on Lisa Krekelberg (Jan. 1, 2011)

Pursuing Special Collections: Alison Greenlee (Jul. 31, 2010)

Apprenticeships

If you're interested in assistantships, alternative spring breaks, practica, and more professional development opportunities in the world of special collections, check out our apprenticeship program. For more information, contact Valerie Hotchkiss at vhotchki@illinois.edu.