Special Collections
Archives and Rare Books
Special Collections include archives, rare books and manuscripts that preserve rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Special Collection items are non-circulating and can be accessed in the Special Collections Reading Room on the second floor of the library.
The Elizabeth Comper Special Collections Reading Room is open Monday to Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. by appointment only.
Due to scheduling constraints, it may be necessary to reschedule appointments on short notice. We will contact you directly if we need to reschedule.
Archives & manuscripts
Explore primary sources including papers from individuals and organizations, with strengths in St. Mike’s programs and the Regis St. Michael’s Faculty of Theology.
Catholic Religious Communities Archive
The Archives preserves records of Catholic communities that shaped Canada’s social, educational and spiritual life.
Henri J.M. Nouwen Archives & Research Collection
The Archives holds a comprehensive collection of Henri Nouwen’s manuscripts, letters, recordings, photographs, research materials, and published works from 1957–1996.
Rare Books Collection
The Collections feature works published before 1850 and later volumes of exceptional value, with strengths in Catholic history, theology and French literature.
St. Michael’s College Archives
The official documents of: St Michael’s College (1852), The Pontifical Institute of Mediaeval Studies (1929), The Faculty of Theology (1962) and the Division of Continuing Education (1956).
Portal of the Catholic Research Resources Alliance
Rare, unique and uncommon materials in libraries, seminaries, special collections and archives.
Discover archives
Unique private papers and archives—especially in Christianity, Catholicism, and Christian spirituality—that support the research and teaching missions of St. Michael’s College programs and the Regis St. Michael’s Faculty of Theology.
Internet archive
With over 300,000 volumes, the print collection—supports programs across Arts and Science, Theology, and Continuing Education, with particular strengths in philosophy, history, literature, and one of Canada’s most comprehensive Catholic theological collections.
Please direct queries to: specialcollections.kellylibrary@utoronto.ca
Before visiting, you are warmly encouraged to review the Researcher Guidelines. Rare materials damage easily but if well-treated, they can last many generations and, in some cases, hundreds of years.