The University of Newcastle has released a new book detailing the hidden treasures housed in its Cultural Collections in the Auchmuty Library.

The coffee table book - Found Treasures - details numerous items and artefacts including Australia's first dictionary, magical manuscripts, a book made of stone, Indigenous records and First Fleet diaries. It covers diverse pieces from antiquities of Rome and the Renaissance to Australian fairies, Antarctic images and antique theatre posters.

University Archivist, Mr Gionni Di Gravio, said the book was a collaborative venture of current and former University staff.

"Found Treasures is evidence of the important role benefactors and champions of the library have played in the developing the University's Cultural Collections."

For more information about the book, including sample pages, visit http://www.newcastle.edu.au/library/treasures

The book can be purchased from the Information Desk at any University of Newcastle library or by calling 02 4921 5822. Cost: $24.95 (or $19.95 for full-time University students).