Intro to Rare Books and Special Collections

4-week Course Starts APR 13, 2026

This course qualifies toward completion of the Preservation Specialist Certificate.

Course Description

This course will provide a comprehensive introduction to the world of rare books and special collections and participants will learn the vital skills needed to excel in this field. Quizzes and homework will allow participants to put their new-found knowledge to use immediately.


Learning Objectives

  • Identify the core skills and knowledge needed to successfully manage rare books and special collections
  • Understand methods for digitization of rare books
  • Recall methods for caring and preserving rare books and special collections
  • Recognize the importance of rare book collection development

Total Course Hours: 10 Hours/1 CEU


"This was a wonderful course! As a non-librarian who is still fairly new to this world, this course was extremely helpful and informative. I have a very solid base for moving forward to help me perform my role. "

- Samuel Shoup, Manager of Special Collections & University Archives at Miami University, Oxford, OH

Your Instructor


Jeff Cowick
Jeff Cowick

Jeff Cowick is a library consultant specializing in rare books, oral history, and disaster preparedness. He received a B.F.A. from the College of Santa Fe and an M.L.S. from CUNY Queens College. Jeff has presented at both regional and national conferences on various library and archival-related topics. He is the co-author of the IGI book Planning for a Disaster: Effective Emergency Management in the 21st Century.


? Frequently Asked Questions

When does the course start and finish?

  • This course starts on APR 13, 2026. It is an asynchronous online course designed to be completed in 4 weeks.
  • Participants will spend approximately 2.5 hours each week on viewing lectures, answering quizzes, and completing written assignments.
  • It is recommended that you complete each week's work within that week to stay in sync with other learners.
When is the last day for enrollment?
  • The last day for enrollment is FRIDAY APR 10, 2026.

Will the instructor be available for feedback and questions?
  • Absolutely! Your instructor will provide feedback for each assignment and will be available via email or phone for any questions you may have. A discussion forum is also available where participants can post questions.
How long do I have access to the course material?
  • You will have unlimited access for three months from the start date of this course.
Will I receive a Certificate of Completion?
  • In order to receive a Certificate of Completion you must:
  1. View all video lectures
  2. Answer all quizzes
  3. Complete all written assignments
  • When you complete these three items you can expect to receive you certificate within two weeks.
I am having trouble enrolling. Help!
  • We're sorry to hear this. Here are some options:
  1. Try enrolling with a different browser or with a different device (laptop, tablet, smart phone, etc.)
  2. Email us at info@preservethis.org for an invoice. This will be emailed to you and you can pay through the link provided in the invoice.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
  • We offer a 14-day refund (from the day the course starts) on all asynchronous courses. Send your refund request to info@preservethis.org.

Get started now!