Biografia de uma biblioteca: o caso do Instituto Histórico e Geográfico Brasileiro (1838-1938)

Abstract

This thesis investigates the library of the Brazilian Historical and Geographic Institute (IHGB). We aimed to comprehend and analyze the formation and development of the library between 1838 and 1938. The first date corresponds to the foundation of the Institute, while the second marks the centennial of its establishment. Through the minutes and reports of the Institute published in the association's journal, we observed that the library played a fundamental role in fulfilling the IHGB's social mission. We analyzed the dynamics related to financing the association's activities, particularly those concerning the library. Despite being a private institution, public resources, and allocations were crucial for the IHGB library creation and expansion. The IHGB obtained public benefits through the involvement of its members: state agents and prominent figures in society who acted on behalf of the Institute within the State. The principal benefactor of the IHGB library was D. Pedro II. The monarch donated books, manuscripts, and maps, and equipped the library by purchasing study tables, shelves, and cabinets. One of the most important donations occurred after the downfall of his regime, as the former monarch donated part of his personal collection to the Institute's library. During the early years of the Republic, the Institute faced difficulties. The new government reduced its budgetary allocations. Besides the financial crisis, the institution was disadvantaged due to its association with the Empire regime. This situation affected the library: there were no staff members, suitable furniture to store the collection, or resources to acquire documents and collections related to the memory of national history and geography. Furthermore, the lack of space and appropriate furniture led to the deterioration of pieces due to insects. The situation improved when the Institute established closer ties with the Republican government and once again received public funds. During the Baron do Rio Branco presidency, and after his death, Count Afonso Celso's presidency, the Historical Institute advocated for significant renovations to its secretariat, library, archive, and museum. This was made possible through the efforts of the IHGB's 1st perpetual secretary, Max Fleiuss. We found that without public funding, the IHGB library would not have been able to assemble its collection or sustain its operations during the analyzed period.