Passage Through Print

Abstract

This article examines the history and evolution of newspaper preservation, digitization, and accessibility at the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries. Highlighting the Libraries' role as a steward of Florida’s history and the narratives of Latin America and the Caribbean, the article traces the development of their extensive newspaper collection, which is the largest in Florida. Initially focused on physical formats, the collection expanded through microfilming efforts starting in the 1940s and gained momentum in subsequent decades, including initiatives funded by the Rockefeller Foundation. The Libraries’ digitization strategies have evolved to include collaborative efforts that enhance access to both historical and contemporary materials. Through initiatives like the Florida Digital Newspaper Library and the Digital Library of the Caribbean, the Libraries ensure broad public access to vital resources, fostering civic engagement and education. This articles argues that the ongoing commitment to preserving, digitizing, and sharing newspapers illustrates the Libraries’ mission to safeguard the past while supporting future generations, marking a century of dedication to accessible knowledge at UF.