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About The Archives
The purpose of the
Wilbraham Archives project is to unite the collections
from a variety of organizations that share common goal of promoting and
preserving the community's local history for future generations. The
Wilbraham
Archives project has evolved from a 'special part of the library's
collection' located within the Wilbraham Public Library to a
searchable database
which represents
the collections of ten organizations located throughout Wilbraham and
Hampden.
The
Wilbraham Public Library preserves and provides access to the
history of Wilbraham and the Pioneer Valley and envisions that all
patrons interested in local history will have access to appropriate
materials resulting in better knowledge of the community.
The historical materials included in
the Wilbraham Collection are part of the community’s
collective heritage, holding permanent value. It is the
responsibility of the library to preserve these resources for
current research and future generations. In 2003, the library
began working with nine local organizations in on a
Documentary Heritage Grant Project, "Wilbraham & Hampden: A
Shared History". Next, in 2005, the collaborative group
embarked on another Documentary Heritage Grant project, "Wilbraham
& Hampden: A Virtual History".
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Participating
Organizations
The following organizations have participated in the
Wilbraham Archives project. The result of sharing their
collections is greater access to the community's unique historical
records and artifacts that represent our rich historical past.
Success of this project is due to their commitment, time, and
expertise.
Some organizations may have limited hours or services.
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Wilbraham Public
Library
The
purpose of the Wilbraham Collection is to collect and
preserve materials that document the history of the Town of
Wilbraham and its citizens, including the former South Parish
(present-day Hampden) prior to
1878. Other geographical areas are included only if they add
information relevant to Wilbraham history. The library primarily
collects paper-based primary and secondary resources such as books,
pamphlets, official reports, maps, works of local authors,
photographs and unpublished diaries and manuscripts.
The collection is located on the top
floor of the library in the Cutler Room, accessible by elevator or
staircase. Because of the unique nature and delicate condition of
many items, the collection is kept inside a locked storage case.
Patrons wishing to use the collection must first speak to the
Reference Librarian
on duty who will unlock the case and provide a brief overview of the
collection if needed. Detailed research assistance is not
available.
Address:
Wilbraham Public Library
25 Crane Park Drive
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Telephone: 413-596-6141
E-Mail:
mbell@wilbrahamlibrary.org
View
Participating Local Organizations and
Other Contibuting
Organizations |
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Library Hours:
