Rare Books

The Special Collections Unit acquires several different categories of Rare Books, including miniature books, autographed editions, first editions, limited editions, private press publications and books with unique bindings. Two important collections include the Pennsylvania Imprint Collection and the Wickersham Pedagogical Collection.

For information on the reproduction of publications held in the Rare Book Collection please refer to the Reproduction of Special Collections Material guidelines and restrictions.

Pennsylvania Imprint Collection
The Pennsylvania Imprint Collection includes books published in Pennsylvania prior to 1850. The collection contains books printed in Lancaster, Philadelphia, and other counties in the region.

Wickersham Pedagogical Collection
This collection began as the private library of James P. Wickersham, the second principal of the Normal School and one of the founders of Millersville University. Books on education published before 1900 continue to be added to the collection.