Bringing Espionage History to Life

The Historic Intelligence Speaker Series exemplifies how donor-supported collections can inspire dynamic public programming. Built around the world-class Hayden B. Peake Historic Intelligence Collection, the series brings leading historians, authors, and experts to campus to illuminate the history of intelligence and espionage.

A recent event featuring historian and author Alexander Rose offered audiences a compelling look at America's first spy network, drawing directly on research made possible by the depth and breadth of the Peake Collection.

Center for Mason Legacies

Community-Engaged Scholarship

The Center for Mason Legacies (CML) continues to demonstrate the power of interdisciplinary, student-centered research supported by the libraries. During the Black Lives Next Door symposium, graduate students shared innovative projects that combine archival research, digital tools, and community partnership to uncover overlooked Black histories in Northern Virginia.

Supported by philanthropic investment, CML provides students with mentorship, research opportunities, and platforms to share work that challenges long-held narratives and strengthens connections between the university and surrounding communities.

Family Study Space at Fenwick Library

George Mason University Libraries is transforming support for student parents and caregivers thanks to a generous gift from Foster Care to Success (FC2S). The donation will fund the design of a family-friendly space in Fenwick Library, creating a comfortable, safe environment where students can study while the children they care for are welcome and supported.

The gift funds three key improvements:

• Family Study Room: Study spaces with play areas for children
• Children's Literature Collection: Expanded book collection
• Family-Friendly Library Area: Accessible, welcoming space for families

Exploring Civic Knowledge and Democracy

Library faculty and curated library spaces play a vital role in advancing civic learning. A recent book event featuring George Mason History Librarian and Professor George Oberle highlighted themes from his new book, Creating an Informed Citizenry, examining how early Americans built systems of knowledge in a young democracy.

Hosted in Fenwick Library, the event underscored how the libraries serve as forums for scholarly exchange, public discussion, and lifelong learning, activities made possible through continued philanthropic support.