The University Museums consist of collections made possible by the generous gifts of Iowa State alumni, friends and enlightened university leadership, all dedicated to the institution’s commitment to the arts. This updated handbook is a visitor’s map. It conveys valuable highlights of the collection reflecting its diversity in content, time and location. As visitors move from gallery to gallery, museum to museum, and across campus, they can see objects spanning from 2000 B.C. to the present day. Here in a brief format, it is possible to access a few of the remarkable works of art and objects that the University Museums has secured for the campus and Iowa.

This book was published on the occasion of the University Museums’ 50th anniversary, celebrated during the academic year 2025-2026.