The Social Welfare History Archive (SWHA) was established in 1971 at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, United States. It was created as a joint effort between the University's School of Social Work and the Social Welfare History Group, a community-based organization.
The SWHA was established in response to the growing interest in social welfare history and the need for a centralized repository for primary source materials related to the field. The University of Minnesota was chosen as the location for the archive due to its strong social work program and its proximity to the National Archives and Records Administration in Washington, D.C.
The primary goal of the SWHA is to collect, preserve, and provide access to materials that document the history of social welfare in the United States. This includes materials related to social work, social reform movements, and social policy. The archive also serves as a resource for researchers, educators, and students interested in studying the history of social welfare.
The establishment of the SWHA was also influenced by the social and political climate of the 1960s and 1970s. This was a time of significant social change and activism, and there was a growing recognition of the importance of understanding and learning from the past in order to inform current and future social welfare policies and practices.
Today, the SWHA continues to be a vital resource for researchers and students interested in social welfare history. It has grown significantly since its establishment and now holds over 1,500 collections of primary source materials, including personal papers, organizational records, photographs, and audiovisual materials. The archive also offers a variety of educational programs and outreach initiatives to promote the study and understanding of social welfare history.
1. Social Welfare History Collection: This collection includes books, manuscripts, and other materials related to the history of social welfare and social work in the United States. It covers topics such as poverty, child welfare, mental health, and social reform movements.
2. Social Work Collection: This collection focuses on books and other materials related to the theory and practice of social work. It includes textbooks, research studies, and professional journals.
3. Community Organizing Collection: This collection contains books and other materials related to community organizing and social activism. It covers topics such as grassroots organizing, social justice, and community development.
4. Social Policy Collection: This collection includes books and other materials related to social policy and its impact on society. It covers topics such as welfare reform, healthcare, and education policy.
5. Women and Gender Studies Collection: This collection focuses on books and other materials related to women's history, gender studies, and feminist theory. It covers topics such as women's rights, gender inequality, and women's role in social welfare.
6. Civil Rights Collection: This collection contains books and other materials related to the civil rights movement in the United States. It covers topics such as racial justice, discrimination, and activism.
7. Immigration and Refugee Studies Collection: This collection includes books and other materials related to immigration and refugee issues. It covers topics such as immigration policy, refugee resettlement, and immigrant rights.
8. Disability Studies Collection: This collection focuses on books and other materials related to disability studies and disability rights. It covers topics such as disability history, accessibility, and disability activism.
9. LGBTQ+ Studies Collection: This collection contains books and other materials related to LGBTQ+ history, culture, and activism. It covers topics such as LGBTQ+ rights, identity, and social movements.
10. Labor and Working Class Studies Collection: This collection includes books and other materials related to labor history, working class culture, and labor activism. It covers topics such as labor unions, worker rights, and labor movements.
The Social Welfare History Archive, located at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, is a valuable resource for researchers and readers interested in the history of social welfare and social work in the United States. The archive contains a vast collection of rare books, historical documents, and manuscripts that provide insight into the development of social welfare policies and programs throughout American history.
One of the most notable collections at the Social Welfare History Archive is the Jane Addams Papers. Jane Addams was a pioneering social worker and activist who founded the Hull House settlement in Chicago in 1889. Her papers, which span from 1858 to 1960, offer a comprehensive look at her life and work, including her involvement in the women's suffrage movement, peace activism, and social reform efforts.
The archive also houses the records of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), the largest professional organization for social workers in the United States. The NASW records include publications, conference materials, and correspondence that document the evolution of the social work profession and its role in shaping social welfare policies.
In addition to these collections, the Social Welfare History Archive also has a significant collection of rare books, including early editions of influential works such as "How the Other Half Lives" by Jacob Riis and "The Jungle" by Upton Sinclair. These books provide a firsthand account of the living and working conditions of marginalized communities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The archive also has a collection of historical photographs, oral histories, and audiovisual materials that offer a visual and auditory perspective on the history of social welfare in the United States. These resources provide a unique and personal insight into the lives of individuals and communities affected by social welfare policies and programs.
Researchers and readers can access the materials at the Social Welfare History Archive by visiting the University of Minnesota's Elmer L. Andersen Library. The archive also offers online access to some of its collections, making it a valuable resource for those unable to visit in person.
In conclusion, the Social Welfare History Archive at the University of Minnesota is a rich and diverse collection of rare books, historical documents, and manuscripts that offer a unique perspective on the history of social welfare in the United States. Whether you are a researcher, student, or simply interested in learning more about this important aspect of American history, the archive is a valuable resource that should not be missed.

Services:

1. Access to Primary Sources: The Social Welfare History Archive (SWHA) provides subscribers and the community with access to a wide range of primary sources related to social welfare history in the United States. These include personal papers, organizational records, photographs, and audiovisual materials.
2. Research Assistance: The SWHA offers research assistance to subscribers and the community. This includes helping users navigate the archive's collections, providing guidance on research strategies, and answering reference questions.
3. Digitization Services: The SWHA offers digitization services for subscribers and the community. This allows users to access digital copies of materials from the archive's collections, making it easier to conduct research remotely.
4. Educational Programs: The SWHA organizes educational programs such as workshops, lectures, and conferences for subscribers and the community. These programs cover a wide range of topics related to social welfare history and provide opportunities for learning and networking.
5. Exhibitions: The SWHA curates exhibitions that showcase materials from its collections. These exhibitions are open to subscribers and the community and provide a unique opportunity to learn about social welfare history through visual displays.
6. Outreach and Partnerships: The SWHA engages in outreach activities and partnerships with other organizations to promote the use of its collections and raise awareness about social welfare history. This includes collaborating with schools, universities, and community organizations.
7. Preservation and Conservation: The SWHA is committed to preserving and conserving its collections for future generations. This includes implementing best practices for storage, handling, and digitization of materials.
8. Online Resources: The SWHA provides online resources such as finding aids, digital exhibits, and research guides to subscribers and the community. These resources make it easier to access and use the archive's collections.
9. Community Events: The SWHA hosts community events such as film screenings, book clubs, and panel discussions related to social welfare history. These events are open to the public and provide opportunities for community engagement and dialogue.
10. Volunteer and Internship Opportunities: The SWHA offers volunteer and internship opportunities for individuals interested in social welfare history. This provides valuable handson experience and helps support the archive's mission.

Things To Do:

1. "Voices of Social Welfare" Exhibition: This exhibition showcases the history of social welfare in the United States through a collection of photographs, documents, and artifacts from the Social Welfare History Archive.
2. Book Reading Events: The library regularly hosts book reading events featuring authors and scholars who have written about social welfare issues. These events provide an opportunity for the community to engage with the authors and discuss their work.
3. "Women in Social Welfare" Exhibition: This exhibition highlights the contributions of women in the field of social welfare, from the early 19th century to the present day. It features photographs, letters, and other materials from the archive's collection.
4. Lecture Series: The library organizes a lecture series on various topics related to social welfare, such as poverty, homelessness, mental health, and child welfare. These lectures are delivered by experts in the field and are open to the public.
5. "Social Welfare and Civil Rights" Exhibition: This exhibition explores the intersection of social welfare and civil rights in the United States, featuring materials from the archive's collection that document the struggles and achievements of marginalized communities.
6. Author Talks and Book Signings: The library hosts talks and book signings by authors who have written about social welfare issues, providing an opportunity for the community to engage with the authors and learn more about their work.
7. "Disability Rights and Social Welfare" Exhibition: This exhibition examines the history of disability rights and the role of social welfare in promoting inclusion and equality for people with disabilities. It features materials from the archive's collection, including photographs, letters, and documents.
8. Film Screenings: The library occasionally hosts film screenings related to social welfare issues, followed by discussions with experts and community members. These events provide a platform for dialogue and reflection on important social issues.
9. "Labor and Social Welfare" Exhibition: This exhibition explores the relationship between labor and social welfare in the United States, featuring materials from the archive's collection that document the struggles and achievements of workers and labor movements.
10. Panel Discussions: The library organizes panel discussions on current social welfare issues, bringing together experts, activists, and community members to discuss and debate different perspectives and solutions.

1. Respect the materials: The materials at the Social Welfare History Archive are valuable and irreplaceable. Please handle them with care and follow any instructions provided by the staff.
2. Keep noise to a minimum: The library is a quiet space for research and study. Please be considerate of others and keep noise levels to a minimum.
3. Follow the rules: The library has specific rules and regulations in place to protect the materials and ensure a peaceful environment for all visitors. Please follow these rules at all times.
4. Use only pencils: To prevent damage to the materials, only use pencils for note-taking and writing. Pens, markers, and other writing tools are not allowed.
5. No food or drinks: To protect the materials from spills and stains, food and drinks are not allowed in the library. Please finish your snacks and drinks before entering the library.
6. Use technology responsibly: The library has computers and other technology available for research purposes. Please use them responsibly and do not tamper with any equipment.
7. Ask for assistance: If you need help finding materials or using the equipment, do not hesitate to ask the staff for assistance. They are there to help you.
8. Respect the privacy of others: The Social Welfare History Archive contains personal and sensitive information. Please respect the privacy of others and do not share or discuss any information you come across.
9. Keep personal belongings secure: The library is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. Please keep your personal belongings with you at all times or use the lockers provided.
10. Be mindful of time: The library has specific opening and closing hours. Please be mindful of the time and plan your visit accordingly to avoid being asked to leave when the library closes.
11. Do not remove materials from the library: The materials at the Social Welfare History Archive are not available for checkout. Please do not remove any materials from the library.
12. Follow copyright laws: When using materials from the archive, please follow copyright laws and give proper credit to the source.
13. Be respectful of others: The library is a shared space, so please be respectful of others and their research. Avoid talking loudly or engaging in disruptive behavior.
14. Leave the materials in their original order: The materials in the archive are organized in a specific order. Please do not rearrange or remove any items from their designated location.
15. Report any issues: If you notice any damage or issues with the materials, equipment, or facilities, please report it to the staff immediately. This will help ensure the preservation of the materials for future researchers.

The Social Welfare History Archive, located in Minneapolis, United States, offers a variety of subscription plans for individuals and organizations interested in accessing its collections and resources. These subscription plans are designed to cater to the diverse needs and interests of researchers, students, and professionals in the field of social welfare history.
1. Individual Subscription Plan: This plan is ideal for researchers, students, and individuals who are interested in accessing the archive's collections for personal use. It includes unlimited access to the archive's digital collections, as well as the option to request physical materials for research purposes. The annual fee for this plan is $50.
2. Student Subscription Plan: This plan is specifically designed for students enrolled in a degree program related to social welfare history. It offers the same benefits as the individual subscription plan at a discounted rate of $25 per year. A valid student ID is required to avail this plan.
3. Organizational Subscription Plan: This plan is suitable for organizations, such as universities, libraries, and non-profit institutions, that wish to provide access to the archive's collections to their members or employees. It includes unlimited access to the archive's digital collections for up to 10 users, as well as the option to request physical materials. The annual fee for this plan is $200.
4. Professional Subscription Plan: This plan is designed for professionals working in the field of social welfare history, such as researchers, educators, and practitioners. It offers unlimited access to the archive's digital collections, as well as the option to request physical materials for research or teaching purposes. The annual fee for this plan is $100.
5. Institutional Subscription Plan: This plan is suitable for larger organizations, such as universities, libraries, and government agencies, that wish to provide access to the archive's collections to a larger number of users. It includes unlimited access to the archive's digital collections for up to 50 users, as well as the option to request physical materials. The annual fee for this plan is $500.
All subscription plans include access to the archive's online finding aids, research guides, and other resources. Subscribers also receive regular updates and notifications about new collections and resources added to the archive.
To subscribe to any of these plans, individuals or organizations can visit the archive's website and fill out the subscription form. Payment can be made online using a credit card or by mailing a check to the archive's address. For any further inquiries or assistance, subscribers can contact the archive's staff through email or phone.

The Social Welfare History Archive is located at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, United States. The library's standard timings are as follows:
Monday: 8:30am - 4:30pm Tuesday: 8:30am - 4:30pm Wednesday: 8:30am - 4:30pm Thursday: 8:30am - 4:30pm Friday: 8:30am - 4:30pm Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed
Please note that the library may have different timings during holidays and breaks. It is recommended to check the library's website or call ahead for specific timings.

The library Social Welfare History Archive in Minneapolis, United States can be easily reached by public transport. Options include bus routes 2, 6, and 12, which stop within walking distance of the library. The nearest light rail station is Cedar-Riverside, just a few blocks away. Additionally, there are bike share stations and ride-sharing services available in the area. Plan your trip using the Metro Transit app for convenient and affordable transportation.