The Preciosa collection contains the eldest heritage materials of the Special Collections, as well as contemporary valuable pieces. The term 'Preciosa' itself refers to 'valuable pieces' and/or 'special collections' and consists of an extensive collection of printed heritage materials that are either valuable, fragile or unique and need special care for those reasons. The collection itself is kept in a closed repository and can be consulted upon request in the Reading Room of the Special Collections.
Collection
The Preciosa collection contains mainly printed heritage materials, such as old prints (published before 1830) but also holds manuscripts, typescripts, etchings, lithos etc.
Activities
Special Collections organize and participate in events as diverse as exhibitions, special tours, lectures, summer schools and Erfgoeddag (heritage day).
Digitization
The extension of the digital repository of our heritage collection is one of our main pursuits.
Research
Special Collections facilitates and stimulates research of its heritage collections. We team up with lecturers and students and welcome researchers from Belgium and abroad.
Heritage Library
The University Library of Antwerp, in collaboration with the Library of the Ruusbroec institute, has been awarded the quality label 'erkende Erfgoedbibliotheek' (accredited heritage library) since 2011.