Special Collections are being developed at Pocahontas Library branch libraries to serve as a resource for our local patrons as well as a resource for the region and state. Due to financial and space constraints, smaller libraries cannot build extensive collections that span the spectrum of all specialties. However, a small library can focus on one or two larger special collections. Our vision is that other libraries in the state will begin to collaborate together to form a network of special collections.

Many of the materials in these collections may be borrowed through normal interlibrary loan procedures. Patrons and supporters are encouraged to submit recommendations for bolstering these collections. Enjoy!

The West Virginia / Appalachian Collection is one of the premier collections of books, videos, music CDs, and periodicals in the state public libraries. Housed at McClintic Library.

The Pearl S. Buck E Pluribus Unum Collection is being developed into a resource to celebrate the diversity of the human experience. Materials include resources: for teaching respect for cultural and racial differences; for developing civil discourse on controversial issues; for distinguishing compassionate religion from violent religion; for combatting rascism, anti-semitism,** hate ideologies, and violent bigotry. This collection is housed at McClintic Library.

**The Hate Ideologies Collection is a major subset of The Pearl S. Buck E Pluribus Unum Collection with the goal to be a major regional resource for research and education on "hate organizations." Of starkest contrast is that the birthplace of the international human rights advocate Pearl Buck and the headquarters of the neo-nazi National Alliance are both Hillsboro located in southern Pocahontas County. This collection is also housed at McClintic Library. Please note that certain materials will have special security and authorization restrictions.

The Heritage Collection comprises books, archival documents, microfilm of the Pocahontas Times newspaper, census records, and other materials for research and study of Pocahontas County and the surrounding region. Sponsored by the Pocahontas County Historical Society, the collection is housed in the McClintic Library Heritage Room. Materials may not be removed from that room.

The Horse Collection is a small collection of books and videos on horses and their care and enjoyment. Started as a perennial grant through Susan Davis of the District Conservation District. Materials for children and adults. Housed at the McClintic Library.

The Quilting Collection is comprised of books and periodicals to meet the high interest in quilting in Pocahontas County. The Cranberry Piecemakers Quilt Guild has seeded the development of this collection with a generous grant. Books include how-to as well as children's stories involving quilts. At this time the collection is housed in both Hillsboro and McClintic Libraries.

Pocahontas Woods Furniture and Woodworking Collection is one of West Virginia's premier collections of books on fine furniture making and woodworking. Pocahontas Woods Cooperative works with both beginning and experienced local woodworkers toward the goal of a cooperative building top quality furniture from the excellent hardwoods of this region. Housed at McClintic Library.

The Outdoors Recreation and Nature Collection is developing as a resource for local residents and visitors who enjoy the famed outdoor recreation and marvelous nature enjoyment of Pocahontas County. Whether skiing, biking, canoeing, hunting, fishing, hiking, bird watching, caving, mushroom gathering, or a host of other activities, this collection will help outdoor enthusiasts with the information they need for this area. Emphasis in this collection will be on this locale and the surrounding region. All libraries will collaborate together in sharing their resources. The more extensive collection is designated to be housed at Green Bank Library.

The Agriculture and Farming Collection is slated for development in 2004. This collection will consist of a range of resources for both experienced farmers as well as hobbyiests who tend a few animals or raise a specialty crop. Materials will be for adults as well as children. The collection will be housed at Hillsboro Library.

The Science and Technology Collection will include materials for a general reading level on the biological and physical sciences, math, and new technology. This collection will be housed at Green Bank Library, a facility that has a view overlooking one of the premier facilities for the study of radio astronomy, the National Radio Astronomy Observatory.

The Point/Counterpoint Collection is slated for development in 2004. Resources will be collected that reflect the best argumentation on current key political, economic, and social issues. Care will be made to choose materials from opposing or varied viewpoints on issues. Resources will include print and multimedia materials. The collection is planned to be housed at Green Bank Library.

The Pocahontas Cookbook Collection has been proposed by a supporter, who would seed the collection with several hundred or more excellent titles. Projections are to house the collection at Green Bank.

The West Virginia Philosophy Collection has been proposed by an employee of the West Virginia Library Commission. This collection would develop key books and videos and articles as a resource for the study and promotion of philosophical thinking.