The Special Collections section collects print and electronic materials focused on a specific area. The focus areas include the history of the University, District Six, the Cape Flats geographical area and it's original inhabitants. This section also collects historical materials collected by individuals. The collection includes literature dealing with the Cape Flats, the Khoi and San people, District Six and forced removals. Other focus areas include the history of Sub-Saharan and Southern Africa. The collection is developed through the acquisition of new materials including purchase, donations and digitisation of fragile and rare materials.