The College of University Libraries & Learning Sciences (UL&LS) is hosting a celebration of Zimmerman Library’s 75th anniversary during UNM Homecoming week featuring the premiere of an original documentary about Zimmerman Library, a festive anniversary reception and exhibitions of historic photos and documents in all four library branches. Anniversary event information can be found here.
After the new campus library was completed, UNM President James Zimmerman led a ceremonial parade of students, faculty, staff and WPA workers carrying books from the old library site in what is now the Art Annex to the new building, which opened on April 1st, 1938. It actually took several weeks for all the books to be moved to the new building. The collections at UL& LS have greatly expanded since that modest beginning in one room of Hodgin Hall. Learn more about the history here.
Today Zimmerman Library is considered the heart of the UNM campus, and generations of students have memories of the hours spent studying there. The library has been in continuous use by students, faculty and community members since opening in 1938. If you are feeling nostalgic you can take the photo tour of Zimmerman Library over the decades. Despite three additions Zimmerman Library is one of the most recognizable buildings on campus and often the location of choice for photography and filmmaking. The campus community is invited to share their memories of Zimmerman Library on the University Libraries’ Facebook page.
Dean of UL&LS Martha Bedard said, “Zimmerman houses the tangible, the digital and the memories and associations of its many visitors. This anniversary is a time to pause and reflect on the part Zimmerman Library has played in the history of New Mexico, and to contemplate its place in the future.”
As part of the anniversary celebration UL&LS has established the Zimmerman Library Historic Preservation Fund. This fund is intended to help maintain the historic structure through the next 75 years and beyond. For more information on giving to the preservation fund visit the Zimmerman Anniversary Page.