RaD Instruction, Research Guides and Tours

RaD Instruction Sessions

The CU Boulder Libraries’ Rare and Distinctive Collections (RaD) offers instruction sessions based around rare materials and their incorporation into course curriculum. These typically take the form of project-based learning sessions, assignment-based materials sessions, or orientations to searching for and working with RaD materials. Due to staffing and space constraints, we prioritize project-based requests that ask students to synthesize primary sources or other RaD materials for a defined, course-integrated outcome. 

RaD Instruction Policies

• The instructor of record must be present for class sessions in the RaD classroom.
• Requests must be made at least 3 weeks in advance. 
• If either the instructor of record for the course or the assigned RaD instructor is out due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances, we will do our best to reschedule. 
• We aim to accommodate all requests, within the limits of our scheduling and staffing capabilities. Priority is given to classes centered around well-defined projects that effectively integrate into course objectives. This ensures students are able to engage with rare materials or primary sources in meaningful ways.

Request Process

• To request a session please contact rad@colorado.edu. Please include the following details  and relevant documents (syllabi, assignments, project ideas, etc.). 
  • Course title:
  • Course number and prefix:
  • Class start time:
  • Class end time:
  • Class meeting days:
  • Class enrollment: 
  • Preferred time frame for visit:
  • Objectives:
• Librarians will work with you to discuss learning goals, craft a list of relevant material, and schedule a class date.
• Prior to the session, please share your session expectations with students, including: the purpose of the rare materials session, the connection to students' learning goals’ and assignment, as well as rare materials policies as appropriate.