The history of Queen’s University Library is the focus of a new virtual exhibit launched in honour of the university’s 175th anniversary.

This timeline exhibit outlines a history of the library, and is filled with stories exemplifying the strengths the present day library is still known for: strong research collections, dedicated staff and superb facilities. The library’s initiatives and activities over the years highlight these different areas of focus, and the ways they enhance the student learning experience and support research prominence, internationalization and financial sustainability at Queen’s.

“It has been wonderful to explore 175 years of Queen’s University Library, and it was an interesting challenge to narrow it down to the items reflected in our timeline. The library has always been a cornerstone of Queen’s, and as contributors have pointed out, Queen’s had a fledging library collection before it had a Royal Charter. We are so pleased to share and celebrate our unique history within the larger context of 175 years of Queen’s” says Martha Whitehead, Vice-Provost and University Librarian. “As the library includes the University Archives, we are well equipped to dig into our rich history.  We hope that this exhibit for the Queen's 175th anniversary celebrations helps our whole community reflect on the past and look forward to our future.”

The Virtual Exhibit can be viewed at the Queen’s University Library website. If you have a suggestion for an entry on the timeline, please email library.news@queensu.ca.