Robert Munsch, internationally renowned children’s author, has donated his personal archives of stories and materials to the Guelph Public Library archives, for research and display at the new Central Library. The collection will include original drafts of his stories, notes from publishers, fan letters, photographs, published works in various formats, and artifacts spanning his 40-year career and over 75 published picture books.

“We are excited to have the archives of Robert Munsch added to the Guelph Public Library,” says the Munsch Family. “The Library has been a large part of our family's lives. When our children were young, Robert would take the kids every week to pick out new books. Robert Munsch is happy to continue to inspire kids and adults alike through the archives.” 

Guelph’s new Central Library will house and preserve the archives, with the collection made accessible to the public, researchers, educators, and collaborators in 2027, offering a rare glimpse into the creative process behind classics like The Paperbag Princess, Love You Forever, and Mortimer.

Robert Munsch has been a beloved member of the Guelph community for more than 50 years. It was through his work at a University of Guelph preschool that he was encouraged by colleagues to publish the stories he loved sharing with children.

“Robert Munsch captures the hearts of young readers and embodies the essence and importance of storytelling in the early years of learning and literacy,” says Eleni Hughes, Supervisor of Archives and Records Management at the Library. “The Library is honored to house and provide access to Munsch’s archives to foster a deeper understanding of the stories that shaped many of our childhoods and the man who created and brought them to life.”

“The Munsch family’s extraordinary gift advances Guelph Public Library’s vision to empower and inspire literacy and lifelong learning for generations to come,“ adds Dan Atkins, CEO at the Library. “It’s an exciting time as we prepare to move to the new Central Library and expand our archives. The Munsch family’s generosity stands alongside thousands of Library supporters who have advocated for the work we do.” 

About the Guelph Public Library Archives

The Guelph Public Library Archives preserve Guelph’s valuable civic, cultural, and personal history including artifacts like from John Galt’s writings, Biltmore Hat factory memorabilia, and an engraved piece of wood from the first tree cut in Guelph upon its founding in 1827. Archival space in the new Central Library will be located on the third floor, expanded and equipped to better serve genealogists, researchers, and curious minds.

Donate to the archives

The Library accepts archival donations that tell the story of Guelph and help genealogists and researchers access information on local history including board and meeting minutes from local non-profits, personal archives of notable community members, or archives of local churches. Items are evaluated and accepted on a case-by-case basis.

Media contacts

Eleni Hughes, Supervisor of Archives and Record Management
Guelph Public Library
548-855-0374
ehughes@guelphpl.ca

Dan Atkins, CEO
Guelph Public Library
548-855-0390
datkins@guelphpl.ca