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Special Collections and Archives Division

This guide will introduce you to Special Collections and Archives and will cover the collections and their uses at the University of Texas at Dallas.

Wineburgh Philatelic Research Library (WPRL)

The WPRL provides researchers and collectors with a dynamic collection of books, journals, and catalogs supporting philatelic research. Founded in 1976 by Harold Wineburgh, the library serves to promote philatelic research and inspire learning through the study of stamps.

Photo of shelving in the Wineburgh Philatelic Research Library 

Wineburgh Philatelic Research Library

Philatelic Definition and Meaning

What is Philately?

Philately is the study and collection of postage stamps, postal history, and related mail artifacts. More than a hobby of curating miniature works of art, it examines how governments communicate identity, commemorate events, and enable global communication. Philatelists analyze design, printing methods, and postal marks to trace economic, cultural, and technological shifts—from the world’s first adhesive stamp, the 1840 Penny Black, to today’s most recent commemorative issues.

More About the Collection

Collection Strengths The WPRL has grown into one of the nation's premier philatelic libraries, featuring:

  • Thousands of books and periodical volumes
  • Over 100 current philatelic journal subscriptions
  • Extensive stamp catalog collection
  • Post office publications and reports

Specialization Areas:

  • U.S. philately
  • British philately
  • Western European philately
  • Mexican philately
  • Confederate postal history
  • Forgery detection
  • U.S. state postal histories
  • Air mail philately

Special Holdings The library maintains the records of:

  • Texas Philatelic Association, Inc.
  • San Antonio Philatelic Association

Search the Wineburgh Philatelic Research Library

Search the WPRL titles

Search the UT Dallas Library Catalog 

The Portal to Texas History-UT Dallas Digital Collection

The Portal to Texas History connects researchers to "rare, historical, and primary source materials from or about Texas." -The Portal to Texas History

View the WPRL Digital Collection

Find digital resources through the Library Catalog.

Support & Development

Support and Development

The WPRL is sustained through:

  • Original endowment fund established by Harold Wineburgh
  • Ongoing contributions from philatelic supporters nationwide
  • In-kind donations of:
    • Books
    • Journals
    • Philatelic materials
    • Postal history resources