RIT Libraries: Deaf Studies Archives, Culture & History Collections

The Deaf Studies, Culture, and History Archives (DSA) was established to ensure that the cultural heritage and lives of the National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) and connected Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, and hard of hearing (“Deaf”) communities are preserved. The DSA collects materials that will increase knowledge of the history and culture of NTID and connected Deaf community members, and strengthen identity formation and pride.

This significant repository of primary resources in all mediums documents the founding and growth of NTID and highlights the many remarkable contributions of Deaf, hard-of-hearing and hearing individuals affiliated with NTID.  Since its creation, the DSA has grown to include collections that document Rochester's vibrant Deaf community.  Collection strengths include Deaf education, Deaf studies, Deaf theater, Deaf art, and technologies for the Deaf.