Rare Book Room

snippet from a 1540 book Astronomicum Caesareum by Peter Apian artist book with central hub connecting chains of discs on which Islamic text is written

Department Overview

Located on the third level of McCabe Library, the Rare Book Room showcases a diverse collection of materials, including our expanding Book Arts + Private Press Collection. It also features numerous rare book collections and significant donations by alumni.

Collection highlights online
View highlights

Search for Rare Book Room materials in Tripod:

  • Enter your search terms, then limit your results using the "Library" filter on the left and select "Rare Book Room." You may further refine your results using the additional filters provided.

Appointments are needed to view Rare Book Room materials in the Special Collections Reading Room. Swarthmore College community members may use this form, while visitors to campus should use this form to schedule appointments.