Algae in Special Collections: Making Room for STEM

Abstract

Pepperdine University Libraries’ Special Collections and University Archives (SCUA) accessioned an algae press collection belonging to a distinguished professor of biology. The first of its kind in these archives, the natural history collection of aquatic plant material provides for inquiry-based and participatory student instruction and research. The algae press collection also provides real-time professional development for special collections librarians more accustomed to stewarding rare books and manuscripts. Providing an overview of developing the collection to full and effective use, this case study addresses challenges and opportunities encountered, including building departmental consensus, researching best practices for preservation and conservation, and developing new use and handling policies. Increasing accessibility of the specimens to the wider scientific community through a national consortium of herbaria will add value to the collection beyond the university.