USC Libraries Primary Source Collections & Uses

The USC Libraries collect, preserve, and foster access to primary source collections that include archives, manuscripts, historic photographs, rare books, objects, and ephemera. These collections support teaching, learning, and research at the University of Southern California and are open to the university community, researchers from around the world, and the public. Explore the highlights for an introduction to our collections.

The USC Libraries collaborate with the USC community and partners beyond campus to activate our primary-source collections in support of digital-knowledge projects and other inventive applications of unique materials. Explore these examples to learn more about how students, faculty, and artists work with us to use our distinctive collections in research and creative practices.