W. Porter Kellam library records, 1900s-1980s

Summary

Creator:
Kellam, William Porter, 1905-1993
Date:
1900s-1980s
Extent:
64 Linear Feet 64 boxes
Language:
English
Preferred citation:

W. Porter Kellam library records, UA98-070, University Archives, Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library, The University of Georgia Libraries.

Background

Scope and content:

The W. Porter Kellam library records consist primarily of correspondence, which is separated into the into the categories of administrattion, donors and special collections. Notable correspondents include Senator Joseph McCarthy and Stephens Mitchell, Margaret Mitchell's brother. The collection also holds Kellam's administrative records such as library self-studies, minutes, annual reports.

The collection contains significant information regarding the source of books and artifacts found in both the general Library and Special Collections stacks. In addition, this collection has numerous materials documenting the design, construction and interior decoration of the Main Library, its Annex and the Science Library.

Biographical / historical:

William Porter Kellam served as the Director of the Library at the University of Georgia from 1950 to 1973. He oversaw many changes in the University Libraries while in this role. His first project was to oversee the construction of the Main Library building, officially named the Ilah Dunlap Little Memorial Library. This new facility was to provide a departure from traditional university library practices. All resources of the building were to be focused on bringing students and books together with as little interference as possible.

Kellam was born in North Carolina in 1905. He attended college at Duke University and Emory University, and he did additional graduate work at the University of Illinois. After a few years in teaching, he moved into library work, and eventually his role at the University of Georgia. He served as president and chairman of the board of the United States Book Exchange, president of the Southeastern Library Association, president of Phi Kappa Phi and was an active Rotary club member in Athens. He spoke on the radio, television, at seminars and lectures carrying the message of the meaning and importance of books. He also donated a large collection to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in memory of his son, a graduate of UNC, who tragically died at the age of 42. On December 20, 1982, Mr. and Mrs. David F. Bishop established the W. Porter Kellam Library Enrichment Fund to bring scholars and lecturers to the University of Georgia to address issues of interest to the Library faculty.

Arrangement:

Arranged into two series: Correspondence and Administrative materials.

Access and use restrictions

Preferred citation:

W. Porter Kellam library records, UA98-070, University Archives, Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library, The University of Georgia Libraries.