Discover the Treasures of Deering
Few buildings on Northwestern’s Evanston campus feel quite as enchanting as Deering Library. While the exterior is striking, the true magic lies deep within, where countless artifacts from the University’s special collections are preserved.
Most of these treasures are held within the Charles Deering McCormick Library of Special Collections and University Archives. From medieval manuscripts and the earliest examples of human writing to the works of 20th century artists and authors, the vast collection offers a glimpse into the past as well as the present.
For Clara Drummond, who recently joined Northwestern as director of the McCormick Library, the last few months have been about the about delving into the collection.
“Understanding Northwestern and its history is a huge part of my work,” Drummond said. “The collections help tell those stories in a really tangible way.”
Treasures of Deering, Part Two, the second installment of an exhibition series that debuted in fall 2025, captures that spirit of discovery by showcasing some of McCormick Library’s rarest holdings. Part Two invites viewers to consider creativity across time and features works by artists ranging from 18th-century poet William Blake to contemporary songwriter Patti Smith. Other highlights include personal artifacts from Dick Tracy creator Chester Gould and papers from poet, novelist and playwright Angela Jackson.
“Like all good exhibitions, it’s really about the juxtaposition,” Drummond said. “We are trying to present a sort of snapshot of the kinds of collections we have, the kinds of materials, the kinds of stories that we can tell with our materials.”
Treasures of Deering, Part Two—which is free and open to the public—will be on display in the lobby of Deering Library through April 23. In May, a new exhibition exploring the history of Northwestern Community Ensemble (NCE), the University’s gospel choir, will open; it will explore the group’s lasting impact on campus culture as it celebrates its 55th anniversary.