Documenting Latino/a experiences for generations to come
Latino/a experience in Kansas
Housed within Kenneth Spencer Research Library, the Kansas Collection illustrates the experiences and stories of everyday Kansans. This important collection offers significant primary sources in support of teaching, research and learning by scholars in Kansas and around the country. Through gathering personal and family papers, as well as records of organizations, churches and business, the Kansas Collection ensures that our collective history is preserved for generations to come.
Thanks to a generous lead gift from Dana and Sue Anderson, KU Libraries have the opportunity to build a historic collecting program documenting the Latino/a experience in Kansas. In order to support this essential endeavor, KU Libraries seek donors to join the Andersons in preserving these stories.
The story of the Latino/a experience in Kansas and across the region is in danger of being lost. Sponsors who join this effort will help ensure KU Libraries have the funds needed to support staffing and resources to acquire, preserve, and share the stories of our past and present, as told by the individuals represented therein.
Perhaps most importantly, the Latino/a experience collection will provide the opportunity to increase our collective understanding of one another by featuring the Latino/a experience in exhibitions and events throughout the community and the state.
Why KU?
You make possible the collection and preservation of materials that are currently at great risk of being lost. No other university in the region is collecting stories of the Latino/a experience at this scale.
KU Libraries has a strong history in building collecting programs that capture the everyday experiences of diverse populations.
KU Libraries have a robust and successful stewardship program, providing corporate partners and private donors the opportunity to receive significant recognition through publications, media coverage, social media and events.
Why Now?
Today, Latino/as comprise the largest minority population in Kansas. Librarians are witnessing an increased need for primary research materials in this area.
Collecting efforts that represent diverse Kansans has been underway for decades, but hurdles exist. Language barriers require specialized staffing and gifts to support this fund will provide resources needed for a critical hire.
The letters, photographs, documents, and stories of the state’s Latino/a populations are at risk of being lost forever if they are not captured and preserved. Time is of the essence.
Opportunities to Support
Your contribution will provide support for resources needed to complete this work and grow this collection. With adequate funding, KU Libraries will hire a Spanish-speaking field archivist with an understanding of and connection to the Latino/a community.
Funds will ensure significant expansion in resources to support education, teaching, and research.
Classes at KU and across the state of Kansas will see and hold first-hand accounts of Latino/as. Graduate students will have unparalleled access to primary research. Faculty members and scholars worldwide will have access to never-before-seen insight into the cultures that have shaped our country.