The Library Records document the development of the Amherst College Library. The bulk of the records date between 1876 and 1933, but span the years 1833 to 1977. The quantity totals 12.5 linear feet. Despite the time span, the records provide incomplete information about the administration of the Library. The records best document the library holdings (1833-1938), and particular functions, such as classification. The Records include correspondence, accession logs, annual reports, in-house manuals and procedures statements, some financial records, printed catalogs, and shelf lists. The administrative files of Librarian Newton F. McKeon (1939-70), Charles Laugher (1970-75), and Willis E. Bridegam, Jr. (1975- ) are not part of this collection.

This collection is organized into fifteen series:

• 1. ADMINISTRATIVE RECORDS, 1849-1937
• 2.ANNUAL AND SUMMARY REPORTS, 1873-1969
• 3. BIBLIOGRAPHIC INSTRUCTION, 1897-1969
• 4.CIRCULATION, 1908-1956
• 5.CLASSIFICATION, 1873-1970
• 6.COMMITTEES, 1829-1939
• 7. DORMITORY LIBRARIES, 1934-1970 (bulk 1934-53)
• 8.FINANCIAL RECORDS, 1853-1936
• 9.FIVE COLLEGE COOPERATION, 1914-1977
• 10.GIFTS, 1851-1933
• 11.HOLDINGS, 1833-1972
• 12.PROCEDURES MANUALS, 1917-1956
• 13.SERIALS AND BINDING, 1884-1949
• 14.RESERVE READING LISTS, 1938-1961
• ADDENDUM, 1910-1968