The Collection

The items that are preserved as the tangible resources for research in the history of psychology are varied, yet limited to those which are not in the public domain or are not preserved in other repositories. And since an archives intends to preserve, but not create history, prejudgments about value, appropriateness, or importance of deposits are made with great care.

Manuscripts:

Papers from Individuals:

The professional papers of an individual psychologist (not reprints but unique documents) play an important role in constructing the historical record. The AHAP houses more than 740 such collections. Examples of documents contained in a manuscript collection include such items as laboratory notes, lecture notes (both given and received), and correspondence.

Papers from Organizations:

Organizational records help illuminate the formal role of psychology in society. Such collections contain correspondence, newsletters, programs of meetings, agenda books and membership directories. Over 50 such records exist at the AHAP.

Instruments and Apparatus:

Manufactured or three-dimensional items serve as artifacts in telling the story of the history of psychology. From the brass and glass of the early experimental labs to the micro-processor of today, the AHAP's collection of over 1000 objects is among the largest in America. While of interest to historians doing intellectual history, these artifacts also reflect the role of psychology in everyday life. Items from the collection can be found in public displays at Ellis Island National Museum and the National Zoo.

Films:

A unique record of the past, filmed images can convey a sense of time and place unavailable in any other format. From research films to home movies, the AHAP has preserved over 6000 film records.

Photographs:

Accompanying the film record is the photo archives containing over 15,000 images. Included are individual portraits, group meetings, research and laboratory settings, and personal photographs.

Audio and Video Tapes:

The availability of audio and video tapes brings the historical record to life. The AHAP's extensive holdings of voice and video recordings include interviews, oral histories, lectures, symposia and research recordings.

Books:

Complementing the archival record is the published record. The AHAP book collection includes rare books, textbooks, professional and trade publications. The ongoing acquisition of rare and antiquarian volumes is helping the AHAP create a comprehensive history of psychology and its roots. Since its inception, the AHAP has acquired some 50,000 volumes.

Tests:

A hallmark of psychology in the twentieth century has been the assessment of individual differences. The AHAP Test Center, containing over 6000 records, documents this development with its diverse holdings of three-dimensional and paper and pencil tests.