Armstrong Browning Library facts for kids
The Armstrong Browning Library is a special place located at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, USA. It holds the world's largest collection of items related to two famous English poets: Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barrett Browning. This library is also known for having one of the biggest collections of non-religious stained glass windows anywhere in the world.
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Discover the Armstrong Browning Library
The Armstrong Browning Library is more than just a place to read books. It's a beautiful building filled with history, art, and the stories of two very important writers. People from all over the world visit to see its unique collections.
How the Library Began
The idea for this amazing library started with Dr. A.J. Armstrong. In 1918, he gave his collection of works by the Browning poets to Baylor University. Dr. Armstrong was very dedicated to gathering these items. After the Brownings' only son, Robert Barrett Browning, passed away, their personal collection was sold. Dr. Armstrong managed to get a list of everything that was sold and who bought it. He then worked hard to get these special items back, either by asking for donations or by buying them.
At first, Dr. Armstrong's collection was kept in the Carroll Library. In 1922, a fire badly damaged the Carroll Library. Luckily, none of the precious Browning items were lost! After the fire, a special room was built just for the Browning collection to keep it safe.
A Growing Collection Needs a New Home
By 1925, the collection had grown so much that it no longer fit in its special room. More space was needed to properly display and store all the new items.
In 1943, the president of Baylor University, Pat Neff, generously donated US$100,000 to help build a new library. Construction on the new building began in 1948. It was designed to hold the growing Browning collection and also serve as a home for the university's English department.
The new library was finished in 1951 and cost US$1.75 million. It was officially opened with a special ceremony.
Modern Updates to the Library
Over the years, the collection continued to grow. In 1995, the building was significantly updated to make room for even more items. By this time, the English department had moved to a different building, allowing the library to focus entirely on its unique collections. The library was also refurbished again in 2012, making sure it stays a wonderful place for visitors and researchers.
