Preserving the Literary Tradition

From a single shelf of books . . .

As long ago as 1949, the Reference Department at the Bennett Martin Public Library realized the importance of gathering information about Nebraska authors. Over the years, what was once a single shelf of books has now grown into a room-sized collection, known as the Heritage Room of Nebraska Authors.

Our mission is to preserve and promote works by and about Nebraska authors, past and present. The collection strives to gather in one location a representative sample of written works by all Nebraska authors.

Today, the Heritage Room contains much more than books. One can also find information files, photographs, audio and video cassettes, compact discs, artwork and other memorabilia reflecting Nebraska's rich literary tradition.

"To browse in the Heritage Room is to explore Nebraska."
   - Susan Rosowski, Nebraska Author, 1942-2004

The Living Literary Tradition

Nebraska's Literary tradition is filled with authors whose work captures the essence of the state's land and people which is embodied in a multitude of subjects. The Heritage Room collects information about these authors and what they write about in many ways:

• NAIL Database -- The Nebraska Author Information Link (NAIL) is a computerized database filled with over 3400 entries of biographical and bibliographical information about Nebraska authors. Authors who have published original work and have significant ties to Nebraska are encouraged to complete NAIL questionaires which are available by contacting the Heritage Room.

• Vertical Files -- The Heritage Room maintains over 2000 information files on Nebraska authors and subjects which are updated regularly.

• John H. Ames Reading Series -- This series showcases Nebraska authors reading their own works. Videotapes of these readings, and other special programs, are available for local checkout and through Interlibrary Loan.

The Tradition Continues

The Heritage Room staff works to promote Nebraska's literary tradition through a number of outreach efforts:

• Heritage Room Tours/Talks -- Many civic groups and school classes come to the Heritage Room for guided tours. Staff are also available to provide programs.

• Writers on the Plains -- This 14 minute video provides a tour of the Heritage Room collection, introduces viewers to Nebraska authors and describes the role of the Nebraska Literary Heritage Association. This video is available for use by diverse audiences by contacting the Heritage Room.

• Writers Write Workshop -- A popular program for 8th graders, students spend a morning writing and reading their work under the direction and encouragement of several local poets. This program is sponsored by the Nebraska Literary Heritage Association.

• The Nebraska Literary Heritage Association -- NLHA supports the Heritage Room through an endowment fund and several volunteer projects. It is only through NLHA's efforts that we can work toward preserving and promoting Nebraska's literary tradition. For more information about NLHA's activities or to become a member, please call 441-8516.

Did You Know?

• The Heritage Room is located on the third floor of Bennett Martin Public Library in Lincoln, Nebraska.

• The Heritage Room has information on over 3400 Nebraska authors hailing from almost every community.

• Once only a single bookshelf, the Heritage Room now holds over 11,000 volumes.

• The Heritage Room collection is maintained so that future generations may realize Nebraska's rich literary tradition. These books do not circulate and preservation measures are used to help ensure their longevity.

• The Heritage Room has more than pioneer stories. There are books on every topic, including philosophy, poetry, psychology, politics, and pop culture. We also have books for children.

• A variety of fiction fills our shelves including romance, fantasy, contemporary, western, and mystery.

• The Heritage Room is currently supported by an endowment fund established in 1983 by the Nebraska Literary Heritage Association.