"Randolph-Macon Woman’s College has a responsibility to collect and preserve documents which record its historical development and its relationship to society. These documents are of interest to students, faculty, staff, alumnae and outside researchers who want to know about and learn from the College's policies, activities and people over the years since 1891. For these reasons we have recognized the R-MWC Archives in the Lipscomb Library as the official repository of college records, papers, and publications which pertain to the historical as well as current development of the college."
Official Statement by Robert A. Spivey, President of Randolph-Macon Woman’s College
27 September 1985
The Randolph-Macon Woman's College and Randolph College Archives exist as a special collection through the efforts of Roberta Douglas Cornelius, Class of 1909, author of The History of Randolph-Macon Woman’s College, Professor of English, and the sole person to hold the title of College Archivist. Her papers comprise the only subject index to the history of the college.
Many college publications are preserved in the Archives such as the College Catalog, the Sundial, the Helianthus, the Student Handbook, and student literary magazines. In addition, with the remodeling of the Smith Memorial Building in 1985, the Alumnae Association contributed student scrapbooks and memorabilia. At the same time, the Office of College Relations augmented the photograph file and newspaper clippings file with many items from the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s; and has continued providing the library with photos dating to the early 2000s. The Archives also include published material by college faculty and alumni.
Materials in the College Archives cannot be checked out, but members of the Randolph community and visitors to campus can access them by appointment. To schedule a visit or consultation, contact the library.
Copies and scans of archival materials may be made depending on their condition and what copyright laws apply. The user may be charged for materials and staff time for reproduction of documents.
Archival materials may be used for campus exhibits depending on condition and availability. Secure display cases are required. To plan an exhibit, contact the library.
We will be working on a library system migration during Spring 2024 and our ability to assist with research requests using the library's archives and special collections will be limited. Thank you for your understanding.
