[4] The rare book room was curated and managed by Dorothy Hamilton, who had previously served as head of the Reference Department.

[6] In a letter to the current president, Myer Horowitz, Peel wrote, "The naming of the Library's Special Collections area was completely unexpected.

I began librarianship in charge of a special collection of Canadiana so that the field of scarce, rare and valuable books has always been an interest of mine; I am very happy with the naming.

[26][27][28] Every academic year, the Peel library hosts a number of online and in-person workshops using materials from a variety of collections.

Since 1987, the Peel librarians have acquired a rare book in recognition of each honorary degree recipient celebrated at convocation.

[30] Before each convocation ceremony, honorary degree recipients are celebrated at a private event, which is when they are introduced to the rare book purchased in their honour.