Ever wondered what Georgian College was like in the early days, what the library offered in the 1970s, or what Student Success services were available for in the 1980s?
Georgian’s story begins in a little Barrie plaza and expanded to the seven beautiful college campuses we know today. Curious to know how we got here? If so, our archives collection is the right place!
Throughout May, the Barrie campus library is exhibiting a Georgian College archives display featuring a selected mix of items from 1967 to the early 2000s. We’re sharing a glimpse of the school’s journey with those who walk its halls today, whether you're new to campus or have been here for years.
The standout of the display is a letterman jacket. This Georgian blue leather jacket, donated by an alumnus, features an original coat of arms used by the college circa 1970. The jacket is in pristine condition and still full of Georgian College spirit! You may also notice some digital media on display. The first features an early 1970s video tour of the first Georgian College Building (now B building), featuring various classrooms, hallways, the library, and the cafeteria. The second features various Student Success services from 1982.
A brochure circa 1971 is also on display, highlighting how to use the library space, library policies and the different services offered to students, way back when the library operated from the Administrative Building (now C Building).
Did you know? The initial library offered some of the services we offer today, including Course Reserves and Research Help. Check out the brochure!
Before e-books and journals the library circulated all printed material. You may also notice a date stamp card on display, with dates from 1971 to 1992. This card, placed inside the book cover, was stamped with a due date and offered a reminder to students to return their books on time. It’s a great peek into the individual students’ academic lives!
Of course, we couldn't forget about all the Georgian memorabilia items, including a parking pass from 1984, a convocation Liripipe circa 1969, Georgian College pin-on buttons and keychains from the initial years.
How to explore the archives?
Don't miss the opportunity to swing by the library and visit the display from now until the end of May 2025!
The library also hosts a digital archives collection including, articles, photographs, newsletters, and videos digitized for the institution’s 25th anniversary.
Come checkout the display in Barrie or online in the digital archives and relive Georgian’s exciting history!
Note: The information presented in the blog, library display and digital collection has been compiled from donated and collected historical records of the college. Archival materials may contain discrepancies or variations in interpretation. Please be advised that some details are incomplete or unclear due to the limitations of the information on the original materials.