Apr 16, 2024 WE RECOMMEND — ARCHIVING THE ARCHIVES

Join us this month to learn more about the History of Special Collections at the Marriott Library with Archiving the Archives – an exclusive community showcase – on Thursday, April 25 and Friday, April 26, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM in the Rare Books Classroom on Level 4.

There will be a brief presentation that begins at 4:00 pm, but guests will be welcome to join any time during the two-hour period. Space will be limited to 40 people per evening and reservations will be required. Reserve your spot by emailing Lyuba Basin at lyuba.basin@utah.edu. 

Special Collections Brochures
University of Utah Library Administration Records, 1965-2020
ACC 0582 Bx63

For the curators, archivists, and librarians working in Special Collections Divisions across the state and the country, maintaining a historical record through the collection of manuscripts, multimedia, and printed forms is not only important to their work, but also necessary to their institutions.  Despite all this, we are often unaware of the need to maintain our own records for future use. Pandemic-era changes have provided a unique opportunity for reflection on the importance of institutional history.

“Utah Room” Accession Book
University of Utah Library Administration Records, 1861-1973
ACC21 Bx2

From the early antecedents in the Utah Room to the most contemporary iteration, this presentation considers “archiving the archives” as a way in which we can build morale and momentum, preserve the legacy of our institutions, and encourage the attention and engagement of both Library and University community members.  

Archiving the Archives reveals the trajectory and evolution of the Division over the last seven decades, with unique holdings from each department that tell a story of dedication, scholarship, and commitment to research and access.  

Marriott Library Level 5 Map, before renovation
University of Utah Library Administration Records, 1965-2020
ACC 0582 Bx 73

To learn more about the History of Special Collections, visit our digital exhibition, view the accompanying virtual lecture, and see us in the Reading Room!

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