Collection Finding Aids
Our ArchivesSpace finding aid repository contains information about individual collections. Search or browse to find primary sources or learn more about our holdings at the collections level.
Research Access by Appointment Only
Due to the ongoing Coronavirus Pandemic (COVID-19), access to the South Caroliniana Library collections will be by APPOINTMENT ONLY.
The South Caroliniana Library reading room will be closed Thursday, November 26 and Friday, November 27, 2020.
The Graniteville Reading Room will have limited weekday hours, and all appointments must be confirmed with library staff. It is strongly recommended to contact us at least five business days in advance to discuss available appointment times. All in-person visitors must register to use library collection materials and agree to the building use policy and materials handling guidelines. Library staff may decide to provide digital access to select collection materials in lieu of an in-person visit. Given the fluid and evolving nature of the situation, the library reserves the right to change the access policy.
Please note that library staff are best able to assist if you use FindIt@UofSC to locate specific collection materials and provide a list via email. However, we encourage you to schedule a virtual reference appointment to discuss your topic, or email us with details, if you are unable to locate materials relevant to your research, as not all collection items have yet been cataloged.
Access Our Collections
As our building undergoes renovations, all materials must be requested in advance. The tools below can help you find what you're looking for. Learn more about our collections.
Digitized Collections
Unique, digitized materials from South Caroliniana Library collections are accessible online through the Digital Collections repository.
Digital Exhibits
Exhibits curated by the South Caroliniana Library available online.
Historic Newspapers of South Carolina
Provides free online access to historical newspapers originating throughout South Carolina since 1815.
The Simms Initiatives
Offers full access to the work of writer and editor William Gilmore Simms. Digital holdings represent three categories of works: printed materials, scrapbooks, and scholarship.
Scholar Commons
South Caroliniana Library publications, including past issues of the University of South Caroliniana Society's newsletter, Caroliniana Columns, and the society's annual report of gifts, are available in the university's institutional repository.
Using Our Collections
In addition to following any special handling instructions provided by staff:
- Patrons must register with a photo ID once per academic year
- Backpacks and other personal items must be placed in lockers
- No pens, food, beverages or personal scanners
- Personal cameras without flash are permitted with staff approval
Reproduction Policies
Reproductions are for personal research only. They may not be added to the holdings of another institution or repository. Quality is based on the condition of the original materials. Copies are purchased at the risk of the requester.
Users at a distance may request reproduction services by calling or emailing sclref@mailbox.sc.edu. Applicable fees will be charged in advance.
Classes, Instruction, and Research Consultations
Due to the ongoing Coronavirus Pandemic (COVID-19), South Caroliniana Library staff will be suspending all in-person classroom activities. Faculty and instructors who wish to develop a distance education option for their courses to have digital access to special collections material are encouraged to contact Edward Blessing: edwardb@mailbox.sc.edu.
In addition to helping faculty and instructors adapt already existing digital material from South Caroliniana Library collections for a variety of courses, we are committed to offering livecasting options and developing short videos of select materials for course delivery via BlackBoard and other content management systems. Please contact Edward Blessing at least two weeks in advance of when you would like your students to have access to digital material, and we will work with you to tailor the presentation to the needs of your class.