Special Collections Main Library 3rd floor 325 Superior Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 44114 216.623.2818 special.collections@cpl.org

The Special Collections Department attributes its legacy to John G. White, eminent Cleveland citizen and president of the Cleveland Public Library Board of Trustees 1884-1886 and 1913-1928. He was a vital force in shaping the research aspects of the Cleveland Public Library.

Through the efforts of John G. White the Library acquired rare books and unique editions that could not be purchased with public funds. He donated significant collections from his personal library. A prime mover in planning and designing the Main Library Building, John G. White underwrote the construction of the Fine Arts and Special Collections reading room and the Exhibit Corridor. A trust fund he established continues to purchase special volumes.

Building on this firm foundation, the Cleveland Public Library consolidated rare holdings from the subject departments into a unified collection designed for optimum housing, preservation and security. Special Collections continues to benefit from the generosity of donors in acquiring individual items as well as entire collections. Researchers now and in the future are assured availability of the Library's greatest treasures. While most of the special collections are listed in the Library's online catalog, some materials are listed only in the card files housed in the Fine Arts and Special Collections reading room. The core of the collection focuses on chess and checkers; folklore; and orientalia. Over the years, many other unique collections have been developed through the generosity of gift donations.