Special Collections Endowment Fund
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The Special Collections service at Queen’s provides access to the McClay Library's rare and early printed book, map, and manuscript collections, as well as to more modern material relating to Ireland and Ulster in particular. These resources are considered to be of lasting research value and very attractive, encouraging international students and researchers in related fields to come to Queen’s.
Notable pieces within the collection include
• The pamphlet collection of John Foster, first Baron Oriel (1740-1828) and last speaker of the Irish parliament
• The Bunting music manuscripts, one of the most significant collections relating to the Irish harp
• The personal papers and diaries of Portadown man Sir Robert Hart (1835-1911) which provide a candid insight into life, diplomacy and economics in 19th Century China
• The Somerville (1858-1949) and Ross (1862-1915) papers, authors of the most popular and best-selling series of comic Irish short stories, the Irish R.M. tales.
To ensure that Queen’s continues to provide this unique level of research and moves decisively when rare and important items are made available to sale, the University launched the Special Collections Endowment Fund. The Fund provides a source of income to continue to build the Special Collection through careful purchase of important materials before they are lost to a private collection, possibly even overseas. All proceeds for this fund are generated through the University’s Adopt a Book appeal.
As a member of the Russell Group of UK universities, Queen’s is committed to maintaining the very best research, outstanding teaching and learning experience. As Queen’s continues to grow as a thriving centre of excellence, the enhancement of Special Collections will not only support research and scholars in the United Kingdom but also assist academics and researchers on a national and international level.
“As a history student I often found Special Collections housed the most relevant material I needed. An entire module of my Masters in Irish History was wholly dependent upon the resources and staff assistance I found there. I couldn’t have graduated without this help.”
Robert Hunter, Masters Student in Irish History.
For further information on how to make a donation to the Adopt a Book appeal please click here.
