UGA Special Collections

The exhibit galleries of the Richard B. Russell Building Special Collections Libraries on the University of Georgia campus bring Georgia's history to life and are a must see for any visitor to Athens. View clips from broadcast media's highest award, the Peabody Award Collection. Walk through a replica of Senator Richard B. Russell's U.S. Capitol office. Pick out famous Georgians who impacted history in Art Rosenbaum's massive mural. Listen to oral history projects. And more!

Permanent and rotating exhibits include rare books, manuscripts, photographs, correspondence, vintage radios and microphones, political cartoons, and other original materials. Many of the exhibits also offer interactive kiosks displaying content drawn from audiovisual and oral history collections. Check for special tours and events.

Located on the campus of the University of Georgia, the building is home to three archives: 

• the Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library,


• the Richard B. Russell Library for Political Research and Studies, and the


• Walter J. Brown Media Archives and Peabody Awards Collection.

These libraries acquire, organize, preserve, and provide access to unique and rare materials related to the history and culture of Georgia.

The second floor also houses event spaces used to host lectures, film screenings, performances and other public programming. The third floor houses the building's reference area and reading rooms where researchers can request and review materials from the collections. 

HOURS

Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 8 AM-5 PM, and Tuesday, Thursday from 8 AM-7 PM. Closed Saturdays and Sundays.

PARKING

Parking for off-campus visitors is available in the Hull Street Deck. Park in the deck and then ask for validation at the front desk of the libraries.
 

TOURS   

The galleries are free and open to the public, so visitors may explore on their own at any time the building is open. 
Group or special event tours can be arranged by contacting Jess Grant at jess.grant@uga.edu. 

EVENT SPACES

Spaces in the building are used year-round for programs and activities offered by the University of Georgia Libraries. Event spaces are available for a fee for the University of Georgia community and affiliated groups. For more information on floor plans, rooms, or reservation and usage policies, visit the Special Collections Libraries website.