Researchers of Brooklyn history will soon have one less archive to have to dig through. The Brooklyn Historical Society and the Brooklyn Public Library recently announced plans to merge the two institutions and create the “premiere collection” of archival materials related to Brooklyn.
Brooklyn Historical Society’s collection will remain at its current location on Pierrepont Street. The public library will transfer its Brooklyn collection there, freeing up space in the library’s central branch for increased public programming. Like all public library materials, access to the combined collection will be free to the public.
Under the merger, the Brooklyn Public Library will serve as the parent institution. The partnership is expected to increase the financial stability of both institutions while expanding the historical society’s reach throughout the borough. In a press release, Brooklyn Public Library President and CEO Linda E. Johnson described how the partnership will be mutually beneficial. “I’m thrilled this partnership will provide a new level of care and interpretation of our own collections, and that we will greatly expand access to this combined archive through our far-reaching networks and library branches,” she said.
Brooklyn Historical Society may undergo a potential name change, but no major changes are expected as a result of the merger. Currently, the two institutions are negotiating with the city for funding.