The Early Years

Abstract

This article examines the formative years of the University of Florida (UF) from 1906 to 1967, highlighting the complex and multifaceted history of its origins and library development. The narrative begins with the relocation of university assets from the Florida Agricultural College in Lake City to Gainesville following the Buckman Act of 1905, which catalyzed the establishment of a new UF campus. It details the evolution of the university library, tracing the growth of its collection from 4,000 volumes in 1906 to over one million by 1963, amidst challenges such as increased enrollment post-World War I and the need for substantial reforms identified in a 1940 American Library Association study. The paper discusses the pivotal role of key figures, including librarians Milton Hadley and Cora Miltimore, and library director Stanley West, who advocated for enhanced administrative powers and faculty status for librarians. It also examines the impact of historical events on library services, such as the GI Bill and the expansion of special collections, while addressing the sociopolitical challenges faced by library staff during the era. This article also includes the graphical timeline of the Libraries.