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Midwest Book and Manuscript Studies

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.
SCHEDULE FOR SUMMER 2009

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. WORKSHOP SCHEDULE

MBMS News

Apprentice Spotlight

We've published the first in our series of Apprentice Spotlight bios! Michelle Thornton completed a practicum last semester at the Rare Book and Manuscript Library and is currently an intern with the Chicago History Museum. Read more about her experiences here...

Tote Bags

New for Spring: Midwest Book and Manuscript Studies Farmers Market Tote Bags! Be green with the rarest bag around, just $4 (tax included).
These bags are sturdy, eco-friendly, huge (big enough for lots of groceries or books), and best of all, they tell the world that you're a fan of special collections librarianship!
Get yours while you're in town for LEEP weekend, or contact Sarah Jackman to see about having yours shipped (shipping not included in price).

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.

MBMS Exhibit Video June 2008