About
Oakland University Archives and Special Collections supports and advances scholarly and creative research, instruction, and engagement through its unique collections and inclusive services for faculty, students, staff, alumnae, and the general public.
It collects, organizes, preserves, and makes accessible the significant records that chronicle the university’s history as well as original materials on Oakland County history, Civil War history, women’s studies, and other fields that relate to the research and educational endeavors of Oakland University.
To support this mission, Oakland University Libraries provides access to digitized and born-digital collections for teaching, learning, research, and public enjoyment. Digitization allows our historical materials to reach a broader audience and enables our users to engage with cultural heritage in new and interesting ways. These digital collections are a living database, and new digitized materials will be added regularly.
In providing digital access to these unique library resources, we recognize that some content may be offensive or harmful, and may represent outdated views that do not reflect the values of OU Libraries. Images or language in these collections might depict racist, sexist, and/or hateful attitudes toward marginalized communities. We reject these views, and we strive to acknowledge the power imbalances inherent in our collections. While it is important to preserve the original context of historical materials, we are working to provide additional context for these items through descriptive cataloging, respectful terminology, and warning users about potentially sensitive content. OU Libraries are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we welcome input about your experience with these digital collections. Please fill out this form if you would like to report any potentially sensitive content.
Take-Down Policy
In providing access to its collections, the OU Library’s Archives and Special Collections acts in good faith. Despite the safeguards in place, we recognize that mistakes can happen.
If you find material in these collections that infringes on an individual’s privacy or in violation of copyright law, please contact us to request the removal of the material by emailing Oakland University Libraries Archives and Special Collections (archives[at]oakland.edu) or by mail at:
Oakland University Libraries
OU Libraries Archives and Special Collections
100 Library Drive
Rochester, MI 48309
In your request, please include:
1. The reason for removal request (copyright infringement, personally identifiable information, etc.)
2. Sufficient information for the Library staff to identify and locate this information for removal. Providing URLs in your communication is the best way to help us locate content quickly.
Upon receipt of valid complaints, we will respond within seven (7) business days and temporarily remove the material pending an agreed solution.