Visit Us

Who Can Use Special Collections?

Special Collections is open to anyone with an official picture identification (i.e. university ID, driver’s license, state ID, passport). We welcome tours and classes to visit, but ask that groups contact us in advance.

Preparing for a Visit

Although not required, we encourage researchers to contact us in advance when planning a research trip to Special Collections.  Library staff can help visitors identify potentially helpful collections for research and discuss guidelines for using the collections. Staff can also assist patrons in finding a hotel and answer other logistical questions researchers may have prior to their visit.

Searching for Manuscript Collections

Searching for Books

University Archives

During Your Visit

Getting Here

Visitors may reach Hattiesburg by air through the Hattiesburg–Laurel Regional Airport (PIB – 13 miles), Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT - 68 miles), Mobile Regional Airport (MOB – 88 miles), and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY - 124 miles). Amtrak trains are accessible from a station in downtown Hattiesburg.    

Special Collections is in McCain Library & Archives Room 305 located on the south end of campus. From Hardy Street, turn into the main entrance of campus.  Once you arrive at the parking kiosk, turn left.  McCain Library & Archives will be on your right immediately after the second stop sign.  If you have problems finding the building, return to the kiosk and speak to the attendant.

For additional assistance, view the campus map  or call 601.266.4345.  For information about parking on campus, contact Parking and Transit Services to secure a visitor’s pass.  For those who do not want to drive to campus, Hattiesburg offers taxi, Uber, and Lyft services. 

Contact Us

Call 601.266.4345 or email for general questions relating to visiting and using our collections. To contact specific people, please look at the staff and faculty directory for Special Collections.