Special Collections: Archival Collections at the Frances Loeb Library

This guide provides information about the archival collections in the Frances Loeb Library's Special Collections, how to search and request items, and explore archival collections outside the GSD.

The Frances Loeb Library Archival Collections consist of primary source materials that further academic research in the design fields within the GSD and beyond Harvard University. The archival collections vary in content and scope, reflect local or global practices and theoretical positions, and are expressed in drawing and writing. They cover mainly the design disciplines related to the built environment. These records, individually and collectively, offer engaging documentation of design history, theory, and practice. Archival collections can only be accessed in the reading room. Researchers are required to place requests in advance. 

All Archival Collections are open to research, even if they are not fully processed. Some of the collections have online finding aids and digitized items. Additionally, some items within collections may have restricted access due to several reasons.