The Columbus Indiana Architectural Archives is becoming part of the Bartholomew County Public Library.

The archives have been housed at the downtown library but were a separate organization. But now the archives work and collections, which contain drawings, models and other relics from the city’s rich architectural heritage, will be absorbed into the larger library organization.

The archives have been housed at the library since the building first opened in 1969. Tricia Gilson, director of the archives, explains that this is a milestone year for the organization.

The architectural archives started 50 years ago, when city planners began curating their collection of architectural materials.

Gilson that change will allow for new partnerships and efforts to make the archives accessible.

Jason Hatton, the library director, says that this is a natural fit for the two organizations and will let the archives expand its work preserving our architectural history..

He said that the missions of the library and the archives dovetail together very well.