The Eva G. Farris Special Collections and Schlachter University Archives acquires, describes, preserves and provides access to unique materials documenting the rich history of Northern Kentucky University (NKU) and the Northern Kentucky-Greater Cincinnati region for the benefit of the university and the community.
As a state university, NKU is subject to Kentucky Public Law. The State University Model Record Retention Schedule identifies the permanent university records to be retained and preserved. The Special Collections and University Archives Department is responsible for managing and preserving NKU’s permanent records regardless of format.
Special Collections focuses on the history of the Northern Kentucky-Greater Cincinnati region (especially its education, African-American, social and business histories) as well as military history, politics and Appalachia. It also collects materials supporting programs of study at NKU.
Special Collections collects the political papers of retiring members of the U.S. Senate or House who represented the people of Northern Kentucky. It also collects the papers of retiring Kentucky State Senators or Representatives providing they were members of the Northern Kentucky delegation and held leadership positions at the time of their retirement. Leadership positions include Senate President, Speaker of the House, Majority/Minority Caucus Chairs (both houses), Majority/Minority Whips, and Floor Leader. Exceptions may be made under extenuating circumstances.
The University Archivist reserves the right to make the final decision regarding whether or not to accept records/papers into the Special Collections and University Archives.
The department does not collect papers primarily consisting of genealogical information. Donors of these materials are referred to their local county historical society or public library.
The department does not accept materials on permanent loan. Loans are only accepted in the short-term for exhibit purposes.
The Special Collections and University Archives Department primarily serves the university students, faculty and administration and secondarily the greater research community at large.
