The forgotten gift: revisiting the University of Virginia library endowment for Ceylonese materials

Abstract

This article examines a special collection, the Ambassador Crowe Endowment for Ceylonese Collection, at the University of Virginia (UVA) Library. The Ambassador Philip K. Crowe created this unique endowment in 1956 to establish the “Ceylon Library” at the University of Virginia library and to acquire materials on Sri Lanka for the collection . The study examines the history of endowment, its role in cultural diplomacy, and its development over time. The study employed a mixed - method approach, combining bibli ometric analysis of library holdings in WorldCat (selected subjects), qualitative interviews with professionals, and examination of archival records. It was identified that the Crowe Collection makes a considerable contribution to researchers but is underu sed. The collection is strong in history, politics, and Buddhism, yet has major gaps in women’s studies, sociology, anthropology, and contemporary literature. Furthermore, the materials from this donation are also scattered throughout the library without c lear identification, limiting their visibility. The article argues that the Crowe Endowment can be revitalized by cataloging the Ceylonese Collection with a keyword, targeted acquisitions, digitization of rare works, and robust outreach, thereby making the collection more relevant to both UVA and Sri Lankan scholars. Collaborations with Sri Lankan universities and the integration of the materials into teaching would further increase its value. The study concludes that the Crow Endowment, once a “forgotten gift,” has the potential to become a living bridge between Sri Lanka and the United States, enriching global scholarship.