Special Collections on the History of the University of Bradford

Special Collections manages the heritage and memory of the University.  Our story goes back to the 19th century, when Bradford needed technical education to make its wool and dyeing industries more competitive.  Bradford Technical College was founded in 1882.  After many years of campaigning for University status, in 1957 the higher education side became a College of Advanced Technology (Bradford Institute of Technology) while the further education side became what is now Bradford College.  The University of Bradford received its Charter on 18 October 1966.

Our collections include the archives of the Technical College, Institute, and the University itself and books published by these organisations. You will also find archives of academic staff and other University people, and collections relating to organisations linked to the University.