Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies

Exploring Jewish Learning and Culture


Collections and Research

Preserving the material culture of the Jewish people is fundamental to the mission of Spertus. Our collections — of books, films, music, artworks, artifacts, rare antique maps, and archival items — number more than half a million.

The purpose of our collections is their relevance. It is our mission to share them creatively for learning, research, beauty, and wonder. Items from our collections are incorporated in our exhibits, courses, and public programming, and are available (in some cases onsite and in some cases online) to scholars, writers, journalists, curators, historians, students, and the general public.

Asher Library Shelving

Click here for information about the Asher Library at Spertus and its collections of books, films, music, and periodicals.

Museum Collections

Click here for information about selections currently on display from the Spertus collections.


Requests for Images

Please direct all requests for images of works from the Spertus collections to Collections Curator Ilana Segal at isegel@spertus.edu. There is a fee for this service.

If you are a journalist and need information or images, please visit our online Spertus Press Room or contact spertuspr@spertus.edu.

Donations and Appraisals

Please note that Spertus is not currently accepting new objects into the collections and that Spertus employees will not give monetary evaluations or appraisals of objects.

 


Spertus is a Jewish institution grounded in Jewish values that invites people of all ages and backgrounds to explore the multi-faceted Jewish experience. Through its innovative public programming, exhibits, collections, research facilities and degree programs, Spertus inspires learning, serves diverse communities and fosters understanding for Jews and people of all faiths, locally, regionally and around the world.

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