The Handley Regional Library System is delighted to announce that it will host the 2023 Shenandoah Valley Archives Fair, an event that shines a spotlight on the rich historical resources held by archival repositories throughout the Shenandoah Valley region. This year’s fair will take place at the Bowman Library Meeting Room on Thursday, October 5, 2023, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
The Shenandoah Valley Archives Fair is a wonderful opportunity for genealogists, history enthusiasts, students, researchers, and anyone interested in the history of the Valley. This event provides a unique opportunity to engage with archivists from various institutions, gain insights into their collections, and discover how these valuable resources support historical research.
Event Highlights:
Ask an Archivist Q&A Panel – 11:00 AM
The fair starts with a panel discussion featuring six archivists from the Shenandoah Valley Region. Whether you’re seeking advice on archival research, curious about how archives acquire their collections, contemplating a career in archives, or simply interested in understanding the significance of those iconic white gloves, our expert panelists are here to answer your questions.
Panelists:
• Stephanie Gardner, Bridgewater College
• Tiffany Cole, James Madison University
• Laura Christiansen, Thomas Balch Library
• Kristin Noell, Massanutten Regional Library
• Melanie Garvey, Clarke County Historical Association
• Zach Hottel, Shenandoah County Library
The panel discussion will be moderated by Lorna Loring, Archives Manager at the Stewart Bell Jr. Archives, Handley Library.
Exhibitor Showcase – 11:30 AM
The Shenandoah Valley Archives Fair offers an impressive lineup of exhibitors who can provide a unique glimpse into their archival collections. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore and engage with organizations dedicated to preserving the rich history of the Shenandoah Valley.
Exhibitor List:
• Augusta County Historical Society (Staunton, Va.)
• Bridgewater College, Newlen-Bradford Special Collections (Bridgewater, Va.)
• Clarke County Historical Association (Berryville, Va.)
• Eastern Mennonite University, Menno Simons Historical Library, EMU Archives, and Virginia Mennonite Conference (VMC) Archives (Harrisonburg, Va.)
• Frederick County Circuit Court Clerk (Winchester, Va.)
• George C. Marshall Foundation Research Library (Lexington, Va.)
• George Mason University Special Collections Research Center (Fairfax, Va.)
• James Madison University Special Collections (Harrisonburg, Va.)
• Laurel Ridge Community College Archives (Middletown, Va.)
• Massanutten Regional Library (Harrisonburg, Va.)
• Newtown History Center (Stephens City, Va.)
• Rockingham County Circuit Court Clerk (Harrisonburg, Va.)
• Rocktown History (Dayton, Va.)
• Shenandoah County Circuit Court Clerk (Woodstock, Va.)
• Shenandoah County Library Truban Archives (Edinburg, Va.)
• Shenandoah University/EUB Archives (Winchester, Va.)
• Shenandoah University McCormick Civil War Institute (Winchester, Va.)
• Shenandoah Valley Black Heritage (Harrisonburg, Va.)
• Staunton-Augusta County African American Research Society (Staunton, Va.)
• Stewart Bell Jr. Archives, Handley Regional Library (Winchester, Va.)
• Thomas Balch Library (Leesburg, Va.)
• Washington & Lee University School of Law (Lexington, Va.)
• Washington & Lee University Special Collections (Lexington, Va.)
• Waynesboro Public Library (Waynesboro, Va.)
• Winchester City Circuit Court Clerk (Winchester, Va.)
• Winchester-Frederick County Historical Society (Winchester, Va.)
• Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library (Staunton, Va.)
The Shenandoah Valley Archives Fair promises to be an educational and inspiring event for all ages. Join us and embark on a journey through the fascinating history of the Shenandoah Valley.
For more information about the event and updates, please visit www.handleyregional.org/archives/archives-fair