Manuscript from Syon Abbey collection
Manuscript from the Syon Abbey collection

Special Collections

We hold the Library's rare and valuable books, archives and manuscripts which are used for learning and research. All our holdings can be ordered and consulted in the Special Collections Reading Room. 

Archives and Manuscripts

Our Archives and manuscript pages contain information on collection highlights, subjects covered, and finding aids to help you search for the material you need including our online archive catalogue.  You can also link to external research resources.

Rare Book and Map collections

Our rare book and map collections are of regional and national significance, featuring several Devon parish libraries, the Hypatia collection of women's history, the Syon Abbey Library, and John Betjeman's working library. Several smaller book collections, like the A.L.Rowse, Henry Williamson, and Jack Clemo collections, support the archival papers held at Exeter.

Archives and Rare Books resources

Our resource pages give information on our collections by specific subject.