Libraries
WIU Libraries
Area Studies Research
Center and Collections
Discover a treasure repository of insights and narratives from across the globe within our diverse collections
Area Studies Collections
From continents to cultures—dive into WIU’s Area Studies collections.
Women, Gender, LGBTQ+ Studies Collection
Through diverse materials, this collection offers insights into the struggles, achievements, and ongoing efforts for gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights.
Explore
Anti-Racism, Intolerance, Genocide, and Holocaust Studies Collection
Through diverse materials, this collection offers insights into the causes, consequences, and strategies for combating intolerance.
ExploreTopic of the Month
Explore a featured topic from the WIU Libraries Area Studies Research Center and Collections, highlighting global histories, cultures, events, and ideas through curated research and library resources.
Explore Topic of the Month
Celebrations of the World
Explore a curated monthly selection of cultural, religious, civic, historical, and commemorative observances from around the world, with connections to relevant WIU Libraries resources.
Explore Celebrations of the World
MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTORS
Dr. Héctor J. Maymí-Sugrañes
As Dean of the Academic Commons and University Libraries and CoDirector of the Area Studies Research Center and Collections, I am pleased to welcome you. The Area Studies Research Center and Collections is a research and teaching initiative dedicated to advancing the analysis and understanding of world regions through a crossregional, comparative perspective. The United States needs to understand the world, just as the world needs to understand the United States, and our work is grounded in that mutual exchange. Our strategic goal is to support professionals and students in developing new knowledge with a genuinely international outlook. We invite you to explore and enjoy our center and its collections.
Nadia Nieblas-Nunez
Welcome to the WIU Libraries Area Studies Research Center and Collections. As one of the co‑directors, I’m excited to share with you the diverse resources we’ve gathered from around the world. Our collections are designed to support your research, inspire your teaching, and deepen your understanding of different cultures and regions. We see this space as a bridge between our campus and global communities, where questions lead to discovery and ideas grow into meaningful conversations. Please feel welcome to explore, ask questions, and let us know how we can help you along the way.