Preserving Michigan’s Legacy: The Library of Michigan’s Call for Yearbook Contributions

The creases of old yearbook pages hold more than just photographs; they preserve the essence of community. Every hairstyle, every outfit, every local business ad is a testament to the rhythm of life in Michigan’s neighborhoods, from bustling urban centers to the quiet expanses of rural towns. These yearbooks serve as vibrant snapshots of the past, offering invaluable insight into the social, cultural, and historical fabric of the state. Recognizing this importance, the Library of Michigan has embarked on an initiative to build a comprehensive yearbook collection that spans every corner of the state. This effort is about more than nostalgia. It’s about preserving the collective memory of Michigan’s communities, especially those whose stories risk being overlooked. Yearbooks are about capturing the lived experiences of students, educators, and entire neighborhoods during specific moments in time. They reflect the trends that shaped generations and serve as a historical record of how communities grew, changed, and adapted. State Librarian Randy Riley emphasized the deeper significance of these collections. “Yearbooks are more than just names and photos,” he shared. “They are time capsules to our youth, which chronicle our own individual stories and which bridge us to the eras of past Michiganders.” Currently,...