The American Assembly records, 1950-2008

Collection context

Creator:
American Assembly
Extent:
77.5 linear feet 62 record cartons
Language:
English .
Scope and content:

This collections contants the administrative papers from 1950 to 1970s, which document the establishment of the Assembly and how it operated in the framework of Columbia University and its Business School. It also includes the volumes created for each Assembly topic and meeting year. The volumes contain both original manuscript material (e.g., correspondence, memos, reports, photographs, programs, etc.) related to the planning and execution of each meeting as well as published reports and publications generated for the meeting. Topics addressed by the Assembly over the years include: US Foreign Policy, Outer Space, Nuclear/Atom Power, International Relations, Collapse of the USSR, Arms Control, US Economy, Domestic policy issues (health insurance, labor, black economic development), Religion and American Life, Social Issues, Arts and Public Policy, Environmental issues, Politics, Tax System, Financial Systems, World Migration and US Policy. The collection also includes The Assembly's publications and a participant index.

Biographical / historical:

The American Assembly is a public policy institute founded in 1950 by Dwight D. Eisenhower, when he served as the thirteenth president of Columbia University from May 1948 until January 1953. For over sixty years, The Assembly has fostered non-partisan, public-policy discussions through convenings, research, and issuing authoritative books and reports. Over 100 'American Assemblies' have been held on topics ranging from prison reform to health care and to nuclear disarmament. In recent years, The Assembly's projects have made significant interventions in and contributions to economic, urban, and cultural policy, as well as other topics representing a broad spectrum of views and interests—such as workforce development, financial regulation, and the role of the arts in US universities.

Access and use

Restrictions:

This collection is located off-site. You will need to request this material at least three business days in advance to use the collection in the Rare Book and Manuscript Library reading room.

All administrative records of the University are restricted for 25 years from the date of creation.

The RBML cannot provide access to original time-based media material which has not been first been reformatted for preservation. Researchers are welcome to examine archival time-based media items and decide whether they wish to place an order for Audio/Video reformatting. If copyright and/or condition restrictions apply, it may not be possible to digitize a requested item. Please note that A/V reformatting is handled by an outside vendor and typically takes 6-8 weeks.

Terms of access:

Reproductions may be made for research purposes. The RBML maintains ownership of the physical material only. Copyright remains with the creator and his/her heirs. The responsibility to secure copyright permission rests with the patron.

Preferred citation:

Identification of specific item; Date (if known); The American Assembly records; Box and Folder; University Archives, Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Columbia University Libraries.

Location of this collection:
6th Floor East Butler Library
535 West 114th Street
New York, NY 10027, USA
Before you visit:
Researchers interested in viewing materials in the RBML reading room must must book an appointment at least 7 days in advance. To make the most of your visit, be sure to request your desired materials before booking your appointment, as researchers are limited to 5 items per day.
Contact:
uarchives@columbia.edu