The Guelph Public Library, located in southern Ontario, recently announced the receipt of what it describes as an “extraordinary gift” from renowned children’s author Robert Munsch, who is providing his personal archives for both research and exhibition.
According to library CEO Dan Atkins, “The Munsch family’s remarkable donation enhances the Guelph Public Library’s mission to empower and inspire literacy and lifelong learning for future generations,” as stated in a press release issued on Monday.
The donated collection comprises original drafts of Munsch’s stories, correspondence with publishers, letters from fans, photographs, published works, and various other memorabilia.
Munsch has a longstanding connection to Guelph, having lived and worked there for approximately 50 years.
Throughout his time in the area, he has contributed to the University of Guelph’s department of family studies and applied nutrition and was honored with an honorary degree from the university in June 2000.
The author has released over 75 picture books, with beloved titles such as The Paper Bag Princess, Love You Forever, and Mud Puddle.
In September, Atkins mentioned to CBC News that Munsch’s books “are consistently the favorites among readers.”
Global interest in children’s book author Robert Munsch surged following an interview published last weekend in the New York Times, where he discussed his approval for medical assistance in dying, known as MAID. In light of the numerous tributes received, Munsch’s family clarified that there are no immediate plans for him to proceed with MAID. Munsch has longstanding ties to Guelph, where he has resided and worked for roughly five decades. CBC K-W’s Craig Norris and Aastha Shetty visited the Guelph Public Library to gather insights from readers eager to express their fondness for the beloved author and his children’s literature.
Following a September article in the New York Times detailing Munsch’s approval for medical assistance in dying — or MAID, interest in the author and his works has significantly increased.
The archives are set to be stored and maintained at the new central library, located at 55 Baker St., which is presently under construction.
The library is anticipated to open its doors in the fall of 2026, with the Munsch collection expected to be available for public viewing starting in 2027.
Eleni Hughes, who oversees archives and records management at the library, shared with CBC News that this presents a significant opportunity for the institution.
“Robert Munsch is a key figure in our community, so the chance to safeguard his legacy is very important to us,” Hughes stated.
“It represents a part of our city’s history.”
Left to right: Ann Munsch, Robert Munsch, Guelph MPP Mike Schreiner, Dan Atkins, CEO of Guelph Public Library, and Danny Williamson, the library’s board chair. On Monday, the library announced that Munsch’s archives would be displayed at the new central library branch beginning in 2027. (Guelph Public Library/Instagram)
Archives preserve Guelph’s history
Currently, the Guelph Public Library Archives is located at the main branch on 100 Norfolk St. Its mission is to “preserve Guelph’s significant civic, cultural, and personal history,” according to the release.
Examples of items in the archives include writings from John Galt, the founder of Guelph, memorabilia from the Biltmore Hat factory, and an engraved piece of wood from the first tree cut down in Guelph upon its establishment in 1827.
The new archival space will be situated on the third floor of the central library and will be expanded to include new materials, including the Munsch collection.
Hughes expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to determine how to showcase certain items from Munsch’s collection. “I hope it will attract classes, community members, and visitors from all over,” she added.