Society Collections: A Comprehensive Resource for Researchers
For historians, genealogists, and scholars, access to primary source materials is essential for uncovering the truth of the past. The Society maintains an extensive array of collections designed to support rigorous academic inquiry and personal research. From rare printed volumes to fragile handwritten diaries, these archives provide a window into various eras of human activity.
Key Facts
- The collections encompass a diverse range of formats, including books, manuscripts, graphics, and microforms.
- Serials and newspapers in the archive span nearly 300 years.
- Imprints dated before 1820 are housed at The Library Company of Philadelphia.
- All resources are searchable via the Society's online catalogs and research tools.
Types of Archival Materials
Books and Pamphlets
The library houses a wide spectrum of printed matter, ranging from current reference works and scholarly monographs—detailed academic studies on a single specialized subject—to out-of-print and limited-edition volumes. It is important to note that any imprints produced before 1820 are located next door at The Library Company of Philadelphia.
Serials and Newspapers
The Society preserves a chronological record spanning almost 300 years. These materials are available in their original physical formats or as microfilm copies, allowing researchers to track events and social trends over three centuries.
Manuscripts
Manuscripts consist of original, handwritten documents. This category includes personal papers such as letters, diaries, scrapbooks, and account books, as well as formal records like deeds and minutes created by businesses and organizations.
Graphics and Visual Media
The visual archives contain a variety of works on paper. This includes fine arts such as watercolors and prints, as well as technical and promotional materials like architectural drawings, maps, posters, photographs, and broadsides.
Printed Ephemera
The collection includes printed ephemera—items typically created for short-term use and not intended for long-term preservation. Examples include event programs, brochures, invitations, advertisements, trade cards, certificates, and menus.
Microforms
To preserve fragile originals and save space, the Society utilizes microforms. This includes microfilm and microfiche reproductions of genealogical resources, manuscript collections, and newspapers.
Collection Summary Table
| Material Type | Examples | Format/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Books & Pamphlets | Monographs, reference works | Pre-1820 items at Library Company of Philadelphia |
| Serials | Newspapers | Originals or microfilm; spans ~300 years |
| Manuscripts | Letters, diaries, deeds | Personal and organizational records |
| Graphics | Maps, photos, watercolors | Works of art and technical drawings |
| Ephemera | Menus, brochures, trade cards | Short-term printed materials |
| Microforms | Genealogical resources | Microfilm and microfiche |
Accessing the Archives
To streamline the research process, the Society provides digital access to its holdings. Researchers can locate specific materials using the "Online Catalogs and Research Tools" available on the official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the books printed before 1820 located?
All imprints from before 1820 are housed at The Library Company of Philadelphia, located next door to the Society.
What qualifies as "printed ephemera" in the collection?
Printed ephemera refers to items meant for temporary use, such as menus, invitations, advertisements, brochures, and event programs.
How far back do the newspaper collections go?
The serials and newspaper collections span nearly 300 years.
What is the difference between manuscripts and graphics in these collections?
Manuscripts are primarily written records like diaries and letters, whereas graphics are visual materials such as maps, photographs, and watercolors.
How can I find specific materials within the collections?
Researchers can use the "Online Catalogs and Research Tools" found on the Society's website to search for available resources.