Hi everyone! It is Jordan again, and since my last time writing, I have had the pleasure of visiting two different special book collections at the University of Iowa libraries, and I wanted to share my thoughts, because I felt like they were hidden gems on campus!

First, I got to see the John Martin Rare Book Room in the Hardin Library for the Health Sciences. This room contains many old and historic books on early medicine and the health sciences. The books were on display within the room, and my class got to flip through them all. And it was cool to be able to actually see and read the materials. If you are really interested in health sciences and medicine, and want to learn more about these rare books, check out the Hardin Libraries page on the rare book room!

Second, I visited the Special Collections room on the third floor of the main library. I needed to use a rare book for one of my class projects, so I requested it ahead of time through Aeon on the UI Libraries website, and when I arrived, they had it waiting for me. This collection is a little bit broader, and you can find more genres and types of books that might interest you! You can review the main libraries page on the Special Collection and Archives room to explore for yourself!

To me, it was really cool to be able to have access to these rare, old, and valuable books, and I think it is a really great resource to have. Even though I stumbled upon these rooms because of my classes, I would definitely recommend checking them out on your own when you get the chance! There’s something really special about holding history in your hands, and I am glad the university gives us the opportunity to access these resources. That’s all for now!

-Jordan