Photo Archives

The OSU Archives Photographic collection stores nearly 2 million images documenting the University's history, from its inception in 1870 to the present. Patrons are encouraged to visit the Archives to select the images in which they are interested. Whether you do the research in person or require the assistance of a staff member long-distance, we will need certain information to assist you as efficiently as possible:

  • What type of photo are you seeking? General categories include: Activities, Athletics, Buildings, Departments, People or Scenic. See our Online Photo Galleries for examples of each.
  • In which time period are you most interested? Please be as specific as possible by providing either a year or short range of years.
  • Why do you need the images? How you plan to use the photos helps us to know which types of images to emphasize in our search.
  • If you are looking for a specific individual, what was his or her relationship to the university? (student/faculty/staff/etc.)
  • There may be a service fee in fulfilling some requests. Please ask before you begin. Visit our Patron Information page for more information.
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