Robert Munsch Donates Personal Archives to Guelph Public Library

Renowned Canadian author Robert Munsch has announced the donation of his personal archives to the Guelph Public Library. This extensive collection will feature original drafts of his stories, correspondence from publishers, fan letters, photographs, published works in various formats, and artifacts from his illustrious career, which includes over 75 published picture books spanning four decades. The library shared this news in a recent release, emphasizing the significance of Munsch’s contributions to children’s literature.

The archives will be housed at Guelph’s new Central Library and will be available to the public, researchers, educators, and collaborators starting in 2027. The collection promises to provide a unique insight into the creative processes behind Munsch’s beloved classics, such as “The Paperbag Princess,” “Love You Forever,” and “Mortimer.”

The Munsch family expressed their enthusiasm, stating, “We are excited to have the archives of Robert Munsch added to the Guelph Public Library. The library has been a large part of our family’s lives.” They recounted how Munsch would take his children weekly to select new books, underscoring the family’s long-standing connection to the library.

Eleni Hughes, the supervisor of archives and records management at the library, praised Munsch’s ability to resonate with young readers. “Robert Munsch captures the hearts of young readers and embodies the essence and importance of storytelling in the early years of learning and literacy,” she remarked. Hughes noted that the library is honored to host Munsch’s archives, which will deepen the understanding of the stories that have shaped many childhoods.

Munsch, a cherished figure in Canadian literature for over 50 years, has actively engaged with children through school visits and readings. His interactions with young readers often inspired his stories, along with the fan mail he received from around the globe.

In recent months, Munsch has faced significant health challenges. In September, it became known that he was approved for medical assistance in dying (MAID) after a prolonged struggle with dementia. A profile in the New York Times highlighted Munsch’s desire to determine the course of his life. He previously suffered a stroke in 2008, which temporarily affected his speech, and he was diagnosed with dementia in 2021. Following the article’s publication, his daughter reassured fans through social media that her father remains alive and in good spirits, although she acknowledged the unpredictable nature of a degenerative disease.

Dan Atkins, the chief executive officer of the Guelph Public Library, emphasized that Munsch’s generous donation will significantly contribute to the library’s mission to promote literacy and lifelong learning. “It’s an exciting time as we prepare to move to the new Central Library and expand our archives,” he stated. “The Munsch family’s generosity stands alongside thousands of library supporters who have advocated for the work we do.”

As the library prepares for the future, Munsch’s archives will not only serve as a preservation of his legacy but also inspire future generations to appreciate the power of storytelling.