The NIU University Archives, established in 1964, serves as the repository for all official records of the university that have permanent historical or administrative value. University records consist of materials pertaining to the history, organization, and administration of the entire university community. Included in this collection are Illinois Board of Higher Education and Board of Trustees proceedings, the president’s and provost’s office records, college and departmental records, faculty papers, records of student government and organizations, oral history tapes, and extensive photographs of campus life. These materials document organizational and policy development, faculty and staff concerns, student affairs, and town-gown relations. Archival copies of university publications, yearbooks, theses and dissertations, and student newspapers are also available in the center.
All collections have an inventory that may include an Introduction, Scope and Content, Historical Sketch, and an Inventory Listing. The Inventory Listing consists of a box by box, folder by folder listing of what is held in each University Archives Collection. NIU-related digital content can be found in various collections hosted in the NIU Digital Library, the University Archives series in Huskie Commons, and the NIU Web Archive collection on ArchiveIT.
Publications Index & Photo Negative Database
The Publications Index is a subject listing of article topics covered in the Northern Star, Faculty Bulletin, and the Alumni News. The Northern Star and its predecessor the Northern Illinois, are available from 1899 to August 5, 1997 on microfilm in the Micoforms Department at Founders Memorial Libray, 2nd Floor. The Northern Star is also available digitally from 1899 - 1975 in the Digital Library and more recent newspaper content (1987 - present) can be found by searching the current Northern Star website.
The Photo Negative Database contains entries for photographic negatives and proof sheets from the University Archives Audio-Visual Collection (UA 11) not included in the inventory or indexed in ArchivesSpace. Search by subject keywords (name, building, office, unit, etc.) to find items documenting the NIU campus and community from approximately 1940 - 2000. To access these materials, please contact us for more details.