The Archives & Special Collections experienced numerous transitions and transformations over the past year. One of the most significant occurred in January when Brian Brennan and Mary Ann Johnson became full-time archival staff members and, in June, Jacqueline Truitt and Amy Kyte joined the team. These individuals perform the daily operations of the unit, including researching and answering patron requests; accessioning, processing, and preserving archival, manuscript and rare book collections; and digitizing and cataloging materials.

Two digital projects transformed the archives over the past year—at least in the virtual world. First, several librarians implemented the institutional repository, a university-wide database that stores and facilitates retrieval of digital images. Archives staff are scanning and entering items into the database daily. Currently, the digital repository contains nearly 400 historic photographs, numerous theses and dissertations, a few salary/working papers, and several manuscripts. Patrons can access the digital repository, called Digital-Dot-Maag, at http://digital.maag.ysu.edu.

Second, library and archives personnel developed an interactive timeline that highlights the university’s accomplishments. Researchers will find the chronology at the following address: www.maag.ysu.edu/archives/timeline

The library purchased new furniture transforming the atmosphere and appearance of the reading room. The mission-style cherry wood furnishings, designed and fabricated by local craftsman Andre Silvers, not only adds a touch of class to the area, but also provides patrons an attractive yet comfortable space to conduct historical research.

As always, the archives continue to collect materials from both on and off campus. Some noteworthy collections recently acquired include:

• The Kenneth M. Lloyd Collection documenting the proposed Lake-to-River Waterway
• Additional Board of Trustee minutes
• Office of the Executive Vice President records
• Additional Dana School of Music materials
• Numerous historic photographs, newspaper clippings, college bulletins, and memorabilia from Howard Rempes, former editor of the Jambar

Please call the Archivist at 330-941-3487 to transfer to the archives materials from your area that document the history of the university. Likewise, please contact the archives for research assistance on any aspect of university or local history.