When the new Automotive Archives open at Windsor Public Library, it will be the first of its kind in Canada and will be a celebration of the automobile, the industry and its importance to the development of Windsor and Essex County.
The Saturday, January 30 Grand Opening on the second floor of Central Library (850 Ouellette Avenue) will begin at 7 pm and include dinner, a bar, auto memorabilia and artefacts. Attendees will also be able to view the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction live with fellow automobile aficionados on our big screen TV system.
The WPL Automotive Archives material includes rare vehicle service manuals, dealer publicity materials dating back decades, manufacturing plans for classic models and even a set of rare design concept sketches from a prominent vehicle designer. Attached is a list of examples of the materials included in the collection.
Windsor Public Library Board Chair, Dr. Peter Frise, believes “motor heads” visiting the archive will feel like “kids in a candy store”. “The collection of sales brochures alone – some dating back to the early 1900s – are unique and trace the development of car design and the vehicle marketing process. Together with all of the other auto industry materials, data and memorabilia, the archive will be a fascinating window into an important part of Windsor-Essex heritage and a must-see visit for everyone.”
The Automotive Archives is the latest phase of a complete overhaul of the Central library. Other projects include a Local History Centre and a space dedicated to technology, such as 3-D printers, which will be available for community use later in 2016.
“The new Automotive Archives is certainly something Windsorites can be proud of and is long overdue. It’s important that public libraries celebrate their community’s heritage. The auto industry and Windsor go hand-in-hand. This is Windsor and this is our heritage!” says WPL CEO Kitty Pope.
Much of the funding for the rejuvenation of the Central Library, including the opening last year of our Library Living Room – a large area furnished with comfortable chairs and tables – comes from a bequest last year of $250,000 from the estate of Norman Young and his wife Denise Young.
Tickets for the GRAND OPENING of the Automotive Archive can be purchased for $80. Tax receipts will be issued for a portion of the ticket price. Tickets can be purchased online here.
The GRAND OPENING will also serve as a fund raiser for Windsor Public Library, with monies raised directed to much needed IT equipment.
