Library Special Collections Archives of the JCU Library

Archives of the JCU Library

The Library Archives is a collection of the records of business, industry, educational and religious institutions, unions, associations, organisations and societies relating to the north Queensland region. Records of some individuals and families are also collected. Personal papers, letters, diaries and reminiscences are included in records of individuals.

List of Archival Holdings.

To consult material in the Archives Collection contact Special Collections in advance before booking a visit to ensure required items are available.

The Archives Collection came into existence in 1970 with the acquisition of the papers of Jean Devanny, an important Australian writer who spent much of her life in north Queensland and wrote extensively about the region. Following receipt of the Delamothe Bequest in 1977, a deliberate decision was made to actively acquire regional archives.

The Library Archives is particularly interested in acquiring:

  • station records representative of particular areas or periods
  • records of churches or of unions which do not have a central archive
  • records of associations representative of social, political and cultural life which have made a significant regional impact
  • records of researchers or writers whose work reflects a particular north Queensland focus
  • records of people who have made a significant contribution to social, cultural or political life in north Queensland

The Cairns, Nguma-bada Campus has a small collection of archives relating to matters more relevant to far north Queensland, including environmental issues and environmental campaigns.