McCain Library and Archives facts for kids
Quick facts for kids McCain Library and Archives |
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| General information | |
| Town or city | Hattiesburg, Mississippi |
| Country | United States |
| Owner | University of Southern Mississippi |
The McCain Library and Archives is a very important library at The University of Southern Mississippi. It holds special books and items that cannot be checked out. Think of it as a treasure chest for rare and unique materials.
This building is not just a library. It also has the office of the President Emeritus. Plus, the university's audio-visual department is located here. The McCain Library is also home to the amazing de Grummond Children's Literature Collection. This collection is one of the biggest in the world for children's books!
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De Grummond Children's Literature Collection
The de Grummond Children's Literature Collection is a special part of the McCain Library and Archives. It is located on the Hattiesburg campus of The University of Southern Mississippi. This collection is one of the top places in North America to study children's books. It focuses on children's literature from America and Britain. This includes both old and new books.
How the Collection Started
The collection is named after Dr. Lena Y. de Grummond. She started it in 1966. Dr. de Grummond was a professor at the University of Southern Mississippi. She taught about library science, especially children's literature. She gathered materials sent by people from all over the world. More than 1,200 artists, illustrators, and collectors have given books and original artworks.
The Curious George Connection
Dr. De Grummond first contacted H.A. and Margret Rey in 1966. The Reys were the creators of the famous character Curious George. They gave a few sketches to the university's new collection. After Margret Rey passed away in 1996, her will said something amazing. The entire collection of writings and art by the Reys was to be given to the de Grummond Children's Literature Collection.
Ezra Jack Keats' Papers
Another important part of the collection is the papers of Ezra Jack Keats. He was a famous author and illustrator of children's books. In 1998, 165 boxes of his materials were added. This is the only collection of Keats' work anywhere. It includes his artwork, early book designs, writings, and proofs. It also has his letters, photos, and items from his childhood.
Curious George Collection
The McCain building holds the world's largest collection of Curious George items. Many of the original drawings for the Curious George books are kept here. Imagine seeing the actual art used in your favorite books!
The author of Curious George even made a special drawing for the university. It was a gift when they gave their collection. This drawing shows George carrying all his books. He is walking past an old sign that points to Hattiesburg. You can see a copy of this drawing in the Curious George section of Barnes and Noble. This store is located in the Thad Cochran Center.
