Within the Hill Freeman Library, Reinhardt’s archives contain a wealth of historic items reflecting the University’s rich history, dating back to its founding in 1883. Led by Executive Director of Library Services Shannon Gibson, the staff, along with several volunteers, embarked on a multi-year project in the Summer of 2025 to update records, digitize, reorganize, and preserve the collection.
Gibson, who brings passion and expertise in collections management, explained the value of taking on the massive project, “Archives are important because these treasures provide a sense of place and a sense of Reinhardt throughout time and its role in this locale. Also, it helps garner respect for Reinhardt’s past and engenders hope for the future. One can’t help but be proud to be part of an institution that has affected the community so significantly. And all these things, from a little letter to the biggest book, help to instill pride and illustrate the continuation of the institution’s mission.”
Efforts by the library employees created space for new donations, which add even more depth to the archives. Gibson enthusiastically described a recent gift that included a composite graduation photo and student magazines from around 1913, and a letter the graduate received decades later from President J. Rowland Burgess.
She also emphasized the need for additional contributions, “The archives collection contains a lot of administrative things, but we are seeking more items portraying the student experience. If anyone has photos, documents, or scrapbooks of their time here, we would love to either have them or scan and return them. We would treat them with the utmost respect. Documents help tell the complete story.”
The digitization effort aims to make all items, including yearbooks, alumni publications, campus newspapers, the President’s Reports, and even MFA theses, publicly accessible, while reducing the handling of fragile originals. “The whole point is to share them outwardly, and people are always very excited to see archived documents,” stated Gibson.
These efforts within Reinhardt’s library ensure that the University’s story – past, present, and future – endures for generations to come.
To donate to the archives, contact Library@reinhardt.edu.
– By Suzy Alstrin
