Today’s thoughts on National Library Week and the APRL come from Marian Mills, the library’s Technical Services Manager. Marian has been with the APRL for over five years starting as the library’s Reference Assistant until moving to her current position. Marian came to us with a wealth of experience in archives management as well as a keen research background and interest in history.
When asked her thoughts about this year’s theme for National Library Week “There’s More to the Story,” she turned to the archives area of the library, a place not often frequented by our patrons and also talked about the fulfilling experiences she has had while working at the APRL.
“What patrons don’t often see when visiting us is that within the second-floor closed stacks of the APRL are the non-circulating collections. This section of the library holds rare books, maps and posters, artifacts, and archival collections.”
Some of the library’s more unique artifacts are on display throughout the building for visitors to view as they wander the halls of the APS, while others are only put on display for special events, or used for instructional classes.
“Some examples of these types of rare items are railroad mail carrier training equipment, a banner from the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, and lots of old post office equipment.”
One of the past APS Convention banners from the APRL Archives
“There are some truly outstanding research collections, including the Hines Airmail collection, which is filled with letters, clippings and photographs relating to the early air mail service. Another great research collection is the American Bank Note Company Files, which contain company letters and documents related to the printing and distribution of stamps outside of the United States, with a significant portion of the collection focused on Central and South America in the early 20th century.
These collections are both great primary sources for researchers. We hope to one day be able to digitize these collections and make them available online.
“Being at the APRL has provided me an opportunity to work on so many different projects. In my current position there are plenty of opportunities to work with a variety of library materials, or to get involved in other projects. I was lucky enough to be on the team that put together the Holocaust exhibit, which was a fantastic and educational experience.
The (Holocaust) exhibit was a really great way to use the library’s collection to create something new.
“On a regular basis the library receives donations of materials for the collection. My favorite donations are archival materials, especially those related to the history of the APS and APRL. It is fascinating to see how the society and the library have evolved.”
I think it is so important to preserve the history of the APS and the APRL in addition to philately as a whole, and I really enjoy getting to help with that.
The archives and special collections truly are "What's More to the Story" at the APRL.