The Guelph Public Library in southern Ontario has received what it calls an “extraordinary gift” from beloved children’s author Robert Munsch — his personal archives, which will be used for research and display.
Library CEO Dan Atkins said the donation supports the library’s goal of inspiring literacy and lifelong learning for generations to come.
The collection includes original drafts of Munsch’s famous stories, letters from fans and publishers, photographs, published books, and other personal items.
Munsch has lived and worked in Guelph for about 50 years. He once taught at the University of Guelph’s Department of Family Studies and Applied Nutrition and received an honorary degree from the university in 2000.
Over his career, Munsch has published more than 75 picture books, including classics such as The Paper Bag Princess, Love You Forever, and Mud Puddle. His books continue to be among the most popular titles for young readers.
The donation comes at a time of renewed public interest in Munsch and his life’s work.
His archives will be stored and preserved in the new Guelph Central Library, located at 55 Baker Street, which is currently under construction. The library is expected to open in fall 2026, with the Munsch collection available to the public in 2027.
Eleni Hughes, supervisor of archives and records management, said the gift is a major opportunity for the library.
“Robert Munsch is a prominent figure in this community, so being able to preserve his legacy is very important for us,” Hughes said. “It’s part of the city’s history.”
The Guelph Public Library Archives already preserves important parts of the city’s past, including writings from Guelph’s founder, John Galt, and artifacts from the Biltmore Hat Factory.
The new archive space, located on the third floor of the central library, will expand to include the Munsch collection. Hughes said the team is already thinking about how to display the materials in ways that attract students, teachers, and visitors from across the community.
