The American Heritage Center is the University of Wyoming's repository of manuscripts, rare books, and the university archives. Its collections focus on Wyoming and the Rocky Mountain West (including but not limited to politics, settlement, and western trails) and a select handful of national topics: environment and conservation, the mining and petroleum industries, air and rail transportation, popular entertainment (particularly radio, television, film, and popular music), journalism, US military history, and the rare book center has book history.
Usage
Students and scholars from around the globe use these collections for research—last year researchers traveled from 45 states and 12 nations. The AHC also sponsors a wide range of scholarly and popular programs including lectures, symposia, and exhibits. Housed in the Centennial Complex on the campus’ east side, access to the AHC is free and open to all. For further information contact the AHC at 766-4114 or its Web site at < http://ahc.uwyo.edu/>.
Description
Established in 1945, the AHC currently holds approximately 75,000 cubic feet (roughly 15 miles) of collection material and 55,000 rare books. The AHC serves 6-7,000 researchers each year. It provides a limited number of small travel grants to researchers outside SE Wyoming, and administers a unique Innovative Teaching and Research grant program that provides funds to UW faculty wishing to develop new courses based on AHC primary sources. The AHC is particularly proud of its active outreach and service to undergraduates and students in grades 6-12. The Center also administer's the state's History Day program.
The University's rare book center is the Toppan Library at the American Heritage Center. The history of the book, from medieval manuscripts to modern printed books and other kinds of books in 21st century is documented in the collections.[1]
Location
Along with the University's Art Museum, the AHC is located in the Centennial Complex. Named for the University of Wyoming’s centennial anniversary (1986) and designed by internationally acclaimed architect Antoine Predock, the Centennial Complex opened to the public in 1993.
References
1. ^ "University of Wyoming, American Heritage Center". Libdex. Bisca Investments. 2009-12-28. Retrieved 2009-12-28.
