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The Clements Library Associates is an organization of people who share an interest in American history and a desire to ensure the continued growth of the Library's collections. Founded in 1947 as a "friends" organization, the Associates recognize the importance of private support in sustaining the mission of the Clements Library. Funds donated or raised are used exclusively for the acquisition of new historical materials. Clements Associates are a diverse group of people, with members from across the country representing varied historical interests.Over its first fifty years, the Clements Library Associates have been resoundingly successful in accomplishing their purposes. Their support of exhibits, programs, and publications has enabled the Library to reach an ever larger audience and to develop a constituency of loyal friends. The books, manuscripts, and maps purchased have added both luster and substance to the collections. At the time of their 50th anniversary celebrations in June, 1998, the Associates had purchased 646 books, 29 maps, three atlases, 69 collections of manuscripts, 55 manuscript letters, 125 pieces of sheet music, 74 prints, 33 watercolors and drawings, 2 photographs, and 1 ship's model!
In a sense, any contribution to the Associates is an investment, not an expenditure, and a shrewd one in terms of return. The purchases made by the Associates -- all of them now a permanent part of the collections -- are today worth ten to twenty times what they originally cost. But, the true purpose of these expenditures is not to be found in a return in dollars and cents. It is found in the excitement of exhibit visitors whose interest in history is encouraged by seeing "the original book" or manuscript which literally changed the course of history. It is the undergraduate whose experience at the University of Michigan was made memorable by being able to use "the actual letters" of Anthony Wayne or Frederick Douglass. It is to be found in the numerous articles and books of historians and writers around the world who have expanded our knowledge of the past as a direct result of the Clements Library's collections.
As a benefit of membership, Associates enjoy the privilege of attending the Library's programs, lectures, exhibits, and seminars, and receive Library publications free of charge or with substantial discounts. The Quarto,a newsletter published each Spring and Fall, keeps members informed about the acquisitions which have been made through their generous giving, and offers informative articles drawn from the Library's rich collections.
Clements Library Associates purchases
Visit the Clements Library publications
Becoming a Clements Library Associate
Associates may contribute in any of the following categories:
Student $5— Donor $40— Associate $75— Patron $100— Fellow $250— Benefactor $500— Contributor $1000 and up
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Library Associates
William L. Clements Library 909 S. University Ave. Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1190 | By e-mail: Library Associates |
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