Bentley Historical Library

Spring 2025

  • War is a Colossal Mistake

    U-M’s ninth president opposed the U.S. war in Vietnam. His papers at the Bentley reveal how his experiences in an earlier conflict showed him firsthand the tragic loss of young people.

    … Complete Story
  • The archives at the Bentley Historical Library featuring rows of shelves full of boxes of historical papers.

    Playing Favorites

    Staff from the archives at the Bentley share the special holdings that have made an indelible mark on their hearts and minds, with some of their favorite pieces of Michigan history.

    … Complete Story
  • Researcher Eimee Lagrama wearing a brightly colored pink and yellow overshirt, and standing in front of boxes of historical materials.

    I Know This Place

    A visiting researcher from the University of the Philippines has found significant documents—and locations—in Bentley collections, including photos that show the aftermath of World War II.

    … Complete Story
  • Group photo including Benjamin King and Estelle Mears.

    Sleuthing the Story Behind a Photo

    An unusual picture sparked a quest to find answers that started at the Bentley, and took researcher Edward Mears across the world, searching for details about his grandmother’s life at U-M in the 1930s.

    … Complete Story