The M. E. Grenander Department of Special Collections and Archives, collects, preserves, provides access to, and encourages the use of the University Libraries' unique manuscript and archival materials. Major collecting areas include the New York State Modern Political Archive, the National Death Penalty Archive, the German and Jewish Intellectual Émigré Collection, and permanent records of the University at Albany, SUNY. While the materials held within Special Collections and Archives do not circulate, we are open to the public and anyone is welcome to visit and view the collections in our reading room or contact us for assistance. We are located on the third floor of the Science Library on the Uptown Campus.
The Albany County Civic Center Collection documents the policy decisions that went into planning an arena in downtown Albany. Originally named the Knickerbocker Arena, it was later known as the Pepsi Arena and the Times Union Center.
This collection contains materials related to the lives of Bill and Andy Spence, including folk and traditional music and materials documenting the Fox Hollow and Old Songs Festivals.
This collection contains the records Citizen Action of New York. Citizen Action of New York is a grassroots membership organization that fights for social, racial, economic, and enviornmental justice. Working closely with New York State politicans, community organizers, and activists, Citizen Action members hope to end the oppression of marginalized groups.
The Education Division of Communication Workers of America, Local 1104 represents "employees eligible for union membership who are employed as: graduate students holding State-funded positions as Graduate Assistants or Teaching Assistants employed by the State University of New York." The collection includes news clippings, contracts, photographs, administrative records, as well as ephemera such as t-shirts, buttons, hats, and cup holders.
Donald M. Blinken was chairman of the Board of Trustees of the State University of New York from 1978-1990. These records pertain to his tenure in that position.