University of Connecticut. University of Connecticut Libraries.

The collection was created by Special Collections in the University of Connecticut Libraries prior to its merger with Historical Manuscripts and Archives in 1995.

Prior to the construction of the Wilbur Cross Library, the institution's library was located first in Whitney [Old] Hall and then the Administration Building [Old Main]. With the construction of a new classroom building in 1929, the library was relocated to the newly named Beach Hall. The name change of the institution in 1939 coincided with the construction of the first building on campus intended to house only the University's library collection. The Wilbur Cross Library [now the Wilbur Cross Building] was the University's first library until the addition of branch, or regional, libraries as the University expanded across the state and the construction of the Homer D. Babbidge Library, which was completed and occupied in 1978.

The University Libraries include libraries on the regional campuses, such as those in Torrington and Stamford and special divisions on the Storrs campus such as the Pharmacy, Music & Dramatic Arts Libraries and Archives & Special Collections in the Dodd Research Center. The Health Center Library located in Farmington and the Law Library in Hartford are associated with the University Libraries but maintain separate budgets, administrative structures and technical services.