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Grant to Help Historical Society Create Library, Archives

historical-society-library-rendering
Rendering of new library and archives currently under construction at the Greenwich Historical Society.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has awarded the Greenwich Historical Society a prestigious and competitive $175,652 Museums for America Collections Stewardship Grant, which will allow improved preservation, management, and access to its collections as they move to new facilities later this year.

The IMLS received a total of 558 applications and only 132 projects received funding. The project will ensure improved preservation of collections through consolidation of materials stored both on- and offsite. In addition, the HVAC-controlled facility on the historical society’s reimagined campus opening this fall will allow for the expanded use and growth of the collections associated with the National Historic Landmark Bush-Holley House, the Cos Cob art colony and the Greenwich community.

Grant funds will support the purchase and installation of specialized stationary and mobile storage equipment, the purchase of archival enclosures, the hiring of a fine arts mover to safely pack and move collections to their new locations and the hiring of a professional project collections manager to work with curator and archivist Christopher Shields to update shelf lists, rehouse collections and move, track and install collections into the new facility.

Space at the current facility is at capacity, and for several years, significant parts of the collection have been stored offsite. A new compact, mobile shelving system will make it easier for staff, scholars and members of the community to access the art and archival collection.

Improved accessibility will also facilitate exhibition planning and enable easier access to materials for the public. In addition, new collection software will make it easier to track and maintain materials.

Most importantly, the grant will help the historical society continue to share in many more ways the countless stories of this unique community and to shine an even greater spotlight on the national importance of the Cos Cob art colony and the nationally important contributions of Greenwich residents through the centuries.

About IMLS
IMLS is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s approximately 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums. Its mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Its grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit imls.gov

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