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Lesley University Archives

Archives and Special Collections @ Lesley

The Lesley University Archives collects and preserves manuscripts, publications, administrative records, photographs, audiovisual materials, school memorabilia, and related ephemera that document the history of Lesley since its founding in 1909 to the present. 

Collections such as University Presidents' papers, course catalogs, yearbooks, and photographs are frequently used.  However, a handful of collections unique to Lesley are worth noting:

  • New England Kindergarten Conference Proceedings
  • Photographs from the School of Practical Art and Art Institute of Boston, 1940-2001
  • Expressive Therapies program records
  • Books and objects demonstrating Friedrich Froebel's gifts and occupations
  • Lesley memorabilia and ephemera (e.g. gym uniform, beanies, posters)
  • Evelyn Finnegan collection (books and dolls by Ms. Finnegan '48)
  • Oral history interviews (stories from alumni, administration, and faculty

Contact the Archivist to schedule an appointment to view materials in person. If you are looking for something specific or need assistance, you are welcome to email us: archives@lesley.edu

Finding Aids

A finding aid explains the scope and content of an archival collection, and provides historical background about its subject(s). Most aids will also provide a detailed list of series, folders, and/or items in the collection.

Lesley's archives and records collections are grouped according to the office or department that created them.

Board of Trustees Records

Office of the President

Art Institute of Boston

Lesley College (Undergraduate School)

Lesley Graduate School

Centers, Institutes, and Conferences

Ph.D. Programs

Public Relations and Communications

Lesley College Schools for Children

Alumni Relations

Archives and Special Collections