University Library Special Collections Revitalize History of CSULB
CSULB Staff Council recently invited all staff to the University Library’s Special Collections and University Archives for an insightful tour of unique and valuable materials. One of Staff Council’s many efforts to connect our Beach community and bolster morale, the event welcomed all professionals across campus to explore a wide range of monumental items and their origins. The tour was led by Special Collections and University Archives Coordinator and Archivist, Heather Steele Gajewski, and History, Special Collections and Archives Librarian, Chloé Pascual. Visitors were able to closely observe items and hold them with care, creating a highly immersive interaction with historic artifacts exclusive to The Beach.
Located in University Library 300, CSULB Special Collections and University Archives houses a plethora of distinguished artifacts, including Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo’s letters to composer Gerald Strang, World War II rations and documents, and historical campus publications from 1949 to the mid 2000s. A donation-based entity, the space holds over 60,000 catalogued items ranging from books, photography, and musical records. The space is maintained by Steele, who is committed to protecting displayed items and preserving them for our students, visitors, and community. The department was officially founded in 1977 and stands strong today.
“Working with the rare items in Special Collections and University Archives has given me a unique perspective on the history of the campus. Since most of our items were purchased in the 60s and 70s, I get to see what our collecting priorities were at the time. Our medieval manuscripts and early printed items would be very hard to purchase if we tried to acquire them now, not to mention the original art and photography we care for,” says Steele, “We have so many documents and photographs related to our students, faculty, and staff experiences on campus throughout the years. It is a treasure trove of information and unique perspectives on the history of our campus. It may take quite a bit of time and digging to go through our materials, but it’s worth it!”
The University Library proudly serves our campus by providing inclusive spaces, advantageous resources, and opportunities for intellectual achievement. The space aims to nourish lifelong learning and increase access for all students and Beach community members.
The Special Collections and University Archives is one of the library’s many examples of our Beach 2030 goal to promote intellectual achievement through its learning, study, and critical thinking opportunities. The library is dedicated to continuing to equip our students with greater knowledge and confidence through its hands-on learning and cultural engagement.
To tour the Special Collections and University Archives, book an appointment on their website.
