Learn more about the State Library's rare book collecion

rare book

The South Carolina State Library is committed to preserving the Rare Book Collection (promotional video) and making them accessible to the community. The collection includes approximately 2,000 items, ranging from political speeches and periodicals to historical scientific works and literature. Half of the Rare Book collection comes from the personal library of A.S. Salley, Jr., South Carolina’s first Historian and Archivist. The Rare Book Collection can be searched in our online catalog, SCLENDS. A selection of digitized materials from the Rare Book Collection can be accessed through the South Carolina Book Collection. If you'd like to make an appointment to view the collection, please visit our website. Further information can be found in the Rare Book Guide.

Upcoming Event

Friends of South Carolina Libraries

From Books to Benefits: Donating Your Sale Proceeds to the Library

September 24, 2025, 2:00 PM

The book sale is over. Now what? Join the Friends of South Carolina Libraries on September 24th at 2:00 pm for a virtual conversation about donating funds back to your local library. This event is free and open to all.