Exposing hidden collections: introduction

We are honored by the invitation to edit this issue of RBM, and pleased to accept the opportunity to spread the word regarding the “hidden collections” project history and agenda. When Judy began background research several years ago for what eventually became the Association of Research Library’s 1998 survey on special collections in ARL libraries, the special collections professionals she consulted were nearly unanimous in naming unprocessed and uncataloged collections as one of the most critical issues they faced. 1 They were equally clear in lamenting the lack of urgency this problem seemed to inspire beyond those having to grapple with . . .