Erikoiskokoelmat

Erikoiskokoelmat, which translates to "special collections" in English, refers to a curated selection of items within a larger collection that are distinguished by their rarity, historical significance, aesthetic value, or unique content. These collections are often housed separately from the general holdings of an institution, such as a library, museum, or archive, to ensure their preservation and to provide specialized access.

The nature of erikoiskokoelmat varies greatly depending on the institution. In libraries, they might include rare books, manuscripts, incunabula, maps, photographs, and archival papers. Museums may designate specific areas or entire exhibits as erikoiskokoelmat for artifacts that are particularly valuable, fragile, or representative of a significant cultural or historical period. Archives often house their erikoiskokoelmat in climate-controlled environments, focusing on unique documents, personal papers of notable figures, or collections that illustrate specific themes.

Access to erikoiskokoelmat is typically more restricted than to general collections. Researchers and interested parties often need to make appointments, provide identification, and adhere to specific handling guidelines to protect these valuable materials. The purpose of these collections is not only preservation but also to facilitate in-depth study and scholarly research. They serve as primary sources for understanding history, art, culture, and science, offering insights not readily available in more common materials.