University of Reading to acquire WH Smith Archive

The University of Reading is delighted to announce that the WH Smith Archive, including the Hambleden family papers, will be transferred to the University in 2011. These remarkable business records paint a vivid historical picture of a notable high-street name, and are one of the most important sources for studying the development of the modern book trade. Significant family, political and estate papers will also be transferred to the University’s Special Collections Service.

The University of Reading acknowledges with thanks the donation of these valuable records and documents by The WH Smith Archive (a charity) and WH Smith PLC. The archive will add to the Archive of British Publishing and Printing which, along with the Beckett Collection and the Museum of English Rural Life, is one of three Designated collections cared for by the University for the benefit of researchers and the wider public. Designated collections have been identified as pre-eminent collections of national and international importance, based on their quality and significance. For more information about the Designation Scheme, please see the MLA website. 

It is anticipated that full research access will be provided in the Summer of 2011, together with an online catalogue, but in the meantime researchers are encouraged to watch for announcements on this website. Enquiries about this process or about future access may be directed to specialcollections@reading.ac.uk.

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