Library seeks ‘meaningful objects’ for National Archives Month

From Wiggins Memorial Library

This October, Wiggins Memorial Library celebrates National Archives Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the vital role that archives play in preserving the stories, identities and collective memory of communities and institutions, such as Campbell University.

From dusty boxes of documents to old photographs, archives safeguard the raw materials of history. They are the foundation upon which we understand our past and shape our future.

Archives Month is more than a commemoration of documents and photographs - it's a celebration of the people behind the preservation. Archivists, librarians, historians, and community members all contribute to maintaining access to information that might otherwise be lost to time. Whether it's a handwritten letter from J. A. Campbell, a photograph from campus in the 1960s, or oral histories from Campbell alumni, archives give voices to those who came before us and offer insight into how we've arrived where we are today.

[Link]

During the month of October, Wiggins Memorial Library invites faculty, staff, students and members of the broader community to take part in a collective reflection on the personal materials that shape our individual histories. Library staff are seeking brief submissions highlighting meaningful objects, documents or photographs.

These items may be old or new, related to Campbell or entirely personal. In just a sentence or two, the library is asking participants to share what the memento is and why it holds significance for you. If available, we also welcome a digital photograph of the item. By sharing these stories, we celebrate the rich diversity of experiences within our community and highlight the many ways that personal archives help preserve memory, identity, and connection.

To participate, please complete this form.

Selected submissions will be featured on the library's Instagram account throughout the month.

This month also serves as a powerful reminder of how archives can enrich the educational experience. The primary sources preserved in archives are unquestionably valuable teaching tools. They require students to decipher and critically evaluate information as well as synthesize multiple sources. Archival primary sources also often elicit a sense of awe and enthusiasm from students which can be leveraged to increase classroom engagement.

Please contact Holley Long, ([email protected]| 910-814-5773) to learn more about our archival holdings and how you can arrange a class visit.