CMBS: A RESOURCE FOR THE AGES
Peggy Goertzen, executive director of the Center for Mennonite Brethren Studies, stands by a model of the first Tabor College building, one of the exhibits in the center?s Heritage Alcove. CMBS was established in the library in 1975 with a mission to collect historical and archival materials concerning the college, the U.S. MB Conference, regional MB districts and local Mennonite-related materials. Goertzen, executive director since 1992, is passionate about preserving, recording and communicating the Mennonite story. She and her assistant researchers help students, faculty and individuals to find their own story among the thousands of files, photos, recordings and books in the archives. Following the library expansion in 1984, CMBS now occupies 4,000 square feet and contains the Paul Wohlgemuth Hymnal Collection, one of the largest in the country. CMBS has published a number of books, most recently Tabor?s centennial history book.
The above anecdote is included in ?Tabor College: A Century of Transformation 1908-2008,? the history of the college commissioned for this year?s centennial celebration. The book can be purchased for $48.39 (tax included) plus $5 for shipping. Call 620-947-3121 ext. 1212 for information or orders.