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Breakout 2A: The Denver Public Library's Conservation Collection: Using Archives to Tell Stories About the American Conservation Movement
Wednesday August 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
This session will introduce the archival resources available in the Special Collections and Archives at the Denver Public Library.  The Conservation Collection, established in 1960 by author, landscape architect, conservationist, and OWAA member Arthur H. Carhart is a valuable resource for the history of the conservation movement in the United States. OWAA officially endorsed the Conservation Collection in 1961 and donated their records and newsletters to the library.  The Conservation Collection is relevant to outdoor storytellers because we share the same mission to share the outdoor experience and promote the wise use of the outdoors through conservation. The presentation will cover a collection overview, online resource demonstration, access methods, and a discussion session.

The Conservation Collection at the Denver Public Library includes nearly 200 archival collections documenting the history of conserving land, wildlife, and natural resources. It also contains a library of 4,000 book titles and serials. The collection includes records from organizations such as the Wilderness Society, Nature Conservancy, and the Student Conservation Association. Notable individuals whose records are included in the collection are Ira Gabrielson, Howard Zahniser, Enos Mills, and Velma Johnston. Recent acquisitions include the papers of Dave Foreman, Gudrun “Gudy” Gaskill, and records from non-profit and citizen organizations, such as the Citizens for Glenwood Canyon Scenic Corridor Records.

In the next part of the presentation, we will discuss accessing online resources and collections, including digitized materials. We will also cover how to access these collections in person or through reference requests. The presentation will conclude with a Q&A and group discussion, focusing on brainstorming ideas for archives and print collections, as well as identifying the resources storytellers need from the library.

Speakers
avatar for Jamie Seemiller

Jamie Seemiller

Special Collections and Archives Acquisitions Archivist, Denver Public Library: Central Library
Jamie Seemiller is an Acquisitions Archivist at the Denver Public Library Special Collection and Archives. She holds a B.A. in Cinema from Southern Methodist University and has a background as a coordinating producer in educational television for 10 years. Her passion for history... Read More →
Wednesday August 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA
  Breakout Session

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