So today is International Archives Day 2017 #IAD17 and what better way to celebrate this year’s theme of citizenship and interculturalism by looking at DMU’s historical tourism — I mean research visits — to other countries to encourage dialogue and knowledge exchange.
First up, DMU’s Cuba Study Tours which took place between 1997-1999 in association with HDRA, the Henry Doubleday Research Association to engage in horticultural study.
The collection includes 3 photograph albums and it is clear to see those who went on the study tour did not miss the opportunity to soak up Cuban culture.
Next up is a report on a tour of academic and design institutions of the People’s Republic of China. The document was compiled by Professor Theo Matoff, Head of School of Architecture at Leicester Polytechnic, 1986.
The tour of China was for scholastic purposes as was the return visit to the UK and both institutions highlighted the importance of immersing into each others cultures with guided tours of local architecture.
I particularly like the mention in point 2.2d, of “At least one overwhelming banquet in each city.” Banquets are a popular way to strengthen the bonds between cultures and would have been an enjoyable way for the delegates of both institutions to build connections. Other documents like these can be found in study trips to Moscow and the US.
These are just two examples of the many study tours and research collaborations that have taken place that reveal something of our collective identity. Since then, the value of study trips for students and academics in terms of pushing research boundaries and providing unique life and learning experiences has become an award-winning feature of the institution through #DMUglobal
So whatever your culture, religion, language or nationality we hope that your have the chance to enjoy Archives and their rich collections everyday! In the mean time, Happy International Archives Day 2017!
For those wishing the visit the archive in person, our reading room is open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm. If you would like to pursue a particular research interest, please contact archives@dmu.ac.uk to book a visit.
