Pandora Archive

The Pandora Archive is a unique collection of rare books and manuscripts held in the National Library of Australia's archives. Created in 1845 by Thomas Gordon, a Scottish-born lawyer, the archive contains over 500,000 items, including letters, diaries, and legal documents.

Named after Pandora, the first woman to be imprisoned for witchcraft by European powers, the archive is one of the oldest and most valuable collections of its kind in Australia. Its contents include rare books on law, literature, and science, as well as manuscripts on a wide range of topics, including Australian history and Indigenous cultures.

Accessing the Archive

The Pandora Archive is open to researchers and scholars by appointment only. Researchers can access the archive through the National Library's website or in person at the National Library's Canberra branch. Visitors must meet certain eligibility criteria, such as being a member of the Australian Academy of Law or holding a University of Melbourne or Australian National University degree.

Conservation and Access

The Pandora Archive is carefully conserved to preserve its contents for future generations. Researchers can access the archive through the National Library's website, which provides detailed information on accessing the materials and how to request permission to use them. The archive is also available via digital platforms, such as Google Books and the National Library of Australia's online catalog.

Conclusion

The Pandora Archive is a significant cultural resource for Australia, offering a unique window into the country's history and culture. Its contents are not only valuable for historical research but also provide insights into the lives and experiences of Australians from different backgrounds. By visiting the National Library or accessing its digital platforms, researchers and scholars can gain access to this remarkable archive.

http://pandora.nla.gov.au/external.html?link=https://goo.gl/maps/KBtSweXVGYWC4C5M8