Introduction
Turning Pages explores the evolution of spaces in Illinois Wesleyan University Libraries. From the library's humble beginnings in a single room of an old academic building to the modern Ames Library, a central campus hub today, join us on a journey through archival materials showcasing our library's significance. Enjoy student publications, correspondence, and oral histories that reveal what makes these libraries special. In a few weeks, we've read and gathered materials from the Tate Archives and Special Collections, uncovering the story we want to highlight, showcasing how IWU’s libraries have shifted priorities through space utilization in the buildings.
To kick off the University’s celebration of its 175th anniversary in 2025, this project offers a glimpse into our libraries, undoubtedly the heart of campus. While today’s libraries focus on student success and acting as an accessible student resource, this wasn't always the case. Dive in to learn how the university has modified the role of libraries through its use of space over the years!
We would like to thank the Tate Archives and Special Collections at Illinois Wesleyan University for providing the material and sources that we utilized for this project.
