History and Mission

The Archives of the History of American Psychology (AHAP) was established in 1965 at The University of Akron to promote research in the history of psychology by collecting, cataloguing, and preserving the historical record of psychology. The central feature of the AHAP is the manuscript collection, which includes the papers of over 740 psychologists. The growth of the repository exceeded projections, both in the rate at which materials were donated and in their diversity. This expansion led in 1976 to the establishment of the Child Development Film Archives, a unit that cares for both research footage and instructional films. This expansion was followed, in 1980, by a decision to supplement the numerous unsolicited gifts of books by devoting space to the published literature dealing with the substantive content of psychology as well as with its history and philosophy. Since its inception the archives has continuously acquired apparatus, equipment, testing materials, and all forms of media.

In the language of the archival world, the Archives of the History of American Psychology is a subject-matter archives (most repositories are based on geographic, military, or political themes). Therefore, the staff is trained in archival methods but also has a comprehensive knowledge of psychology as well as its organizational patterns and educational practices. The director is a psychologist, and a number of members of the board of advisers represent subfields of psychology as well as the academic discipline of history.

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.

Media

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

Complimenting 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the AHAP?

We are located on the campus of The University of Akron in the lower level of the Polsky Building.

When are you open?

The AHAP is open all year, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm.

How does one gain access to the AHAP?

Everyone is welcome to visit the archives, but an appointment is required. Researchers are strongly encouraged to call well in advance of an anticipated visit to ensure high quality service. Tours are available upon request.

How do I contact the AHAP?

You can reach us by phone, fax, email or regular mail.

Archives of the History of American Psychology
The University of Akron
Polsky Building - Room LL10-A
225 South Main Street
Akron, Ohio 44325-4302
Phone: (330) 972-7285
Fax: (330) 972-2093