We hold the University archive alongside other special collections and can help identify appropriate sources of information for enquiries and projects relating to the collections we hold.
The Records Centre houses a growing collection of historical archive documents relating to the University’s history. This invaluable resource comprises bound volumes, registers, minute books, prospectuses, news cuttings and photographic material. The continuance of the archive is being guaranteed through the deposit of current University source books such as prospectuses, statistical handbooks and topical press cuttings.
Our Records and Archive Centre Guide contains more information about the work we do.
Archive Collections
The following collections are held by the university. Click to find out more about each collection.
Alumni Association Photo Archive
Photographs from Alumni Association events and reunions. These are managed by the Alumni Association.
Dates: c. 1911, 1972 - present
Contact: alumni@bcu.ac.uk
Alumni Association Photo Archive
BCU Arts, Design and Media Archives
Several collections spanning arts, design, and media, including design education, public art, and the National Jazz Archive Satellite collection. Book a visit through the ADM Archive website.
Dates: c. 1843 – c. 1999
Contact: adm-archives-request@bcu.ac.uk
BCU Arts, Design and Media Archives
These working documents record the structure and content for courses offered by BCU and its predecessors. Contact Academic Registry directly to find out more.
Dates: 1977 - present
Contact: Quality Support Division, Academic Registry.
The papers and books of Leslie Ginsburg, founding Head of the Birmingham School of Planning (1957). This collection is managed by the Records Management Team within the Library. Please contact us if you would like to view this collection.
Dates: 1940s - mid 1980s
Contact: recordsmanagement@bcu.ac.uk or phone 0121 331 7636.
Further information about the Ginsburg Collection
The School of English holds a collection of photocopies forming a significant section of the archive of the publisher John Lane, which published the work of many literary figures in the late Victorian period and the early decades of the twentieth century under the imprint of Bodley Head.
Dates: 1882 - 1932
Contact: recordsmanagement@bcu.ac.uk or phone 0121 331 7636.
Further information about the John Lane Collection
The library holds a collection of rare 18th and 19th century books known as the Library Treasures that has helped inspire talent over the years.
Dates: 18th-19th Century
Contact: recordsmanagement@bcu.ac.uk or phone 0121 331 7636.
Further information about the Library Treasures
Royal College of Organists Curzon Library Collection
The University holds part of the RCO Library’s collection of sheet music and books which are available to BCU staff and students. The collection is housed in Curzon Library at our city centre campus. RCO members can discover more about accessing the collection by visiting the RCO website.
Dates: 1604 - present
Contact: RCOLibrary@bcu.ac.uk
RCO Library Website
University Historical Archive
Documenting the history of the University, the archive includes the central records of the constituent colleges, primarily those of the College of Commerce, through the polytechnic years, and up to the present day.
Dates: Late 1800s to present
Contact: recordsmanagement@bcu.ac.uk or phone 0121 331 7636.
Further information about the University Historical Archive
