About UTSA Libraries Special Collections

Vision

We will bring national recognition to the university for distinctive research collections documenting the diverse histories of San Antonio and South Texas.

Mission

Our mission is to preserve and provide access to distinctive archives and rare books that reflect the diversity of our region.  We support the university’s mission of advancing knowledge through research and discovery, teaching and learning, community engagement, and public service.

We collect material related to the history of San Antonio and South Texas including social activism and politics, Mexican American history, women’s history, Mexican culinary history and cookbooks, LGBTQ history, the arts, urban development and the history of UTSA.

Values

Broadest possible access

We promote open and equitable access of our materials to all users. Through online collection guides, digitized content, and remote reference services, we strive to remove barriers for those who cannot physically visit our archives.

Community Engagement 

We actively seek opportunities to share our materials with the community through public engagement, interactive exhibits, and collaborative programming.

Customer Service 

We are committed to providing a welcoming environment to all users and will go the extra mile to meet users’ research needs.

Preservation & Stewardship

As stewards of cultural heritage materials, we are committed to ethically caring for the resources entrusted to our care.

Student Success

We are dedicated to enriching student educational experiences through access to unique materials and experiential learning opportunities.