ACAF Aids in Historic Newspaper Preservation

The Allegany County Area Foundation recently presented a grant to the Bolivar Library to assist with efforts to digitize its collection of Allegany County Democrat newspapers.

 Published from 1867 – 1965 (initially as the Allegany Democrat) and with the tagline Fearless and Independent (see photo), the papers offer a look at happenings around the county and insight into local social and economic history. Library trustee Kelly Lounsberry notes that the papers will be a great resource for genealogists, teachers, town historians, and anyone researching the development of Allegany County.

The library’s collection spans the years 1874-1963 (with the exception of 1909 – 1923). Digitization is underway; the ACAF grant will help finish the project. Once it’s complete, interested persons may access the papers via CD at the library.

‘This a really interesting project that can benefit a variety of persons and communities.’ Reports ACAF Executive Director Bruce Campbell. ‘The Foundation is really pleased to participate in it.’

In addition to the Democrats, the library has 70+ years’ worth (1892 – 1956) of another local paper, The Bolivar Breeze. These are indexed, and exist now in hard copy and on microfilm. The library would like to eventually have these digitized, too.

The post ACAF Aids in Historic Newspaper Preservation appeared first on Allegany County Area Foundation.