Lithuanian Research & Studies Center Inc

Overview

The Lithuanian Research & Studies Center Inc. (LRSC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Lithuanian heritage and scholarship. Established in 1982 and headquartered in Lemont, Illinois, LRSC is recognized as the largest scholarly institution, archive, and publisher of Lithuanian studies outside of Lithuania. The organization operates with a mission to acquire, preserve, and make accessible a wide range of Lithuanian artifacts, documents, and other culturally significant materials.

History

The LRSC was founded to unify several Lithuanian organizations and has since grown into a pivotal institution for Lithuanian heritage in the United States. Over the years, it has accumulated extensive collections that include archival materials from both individual donors and cultural entities. The center supports diverse academic initiatives and has established collaborations with various educational and cultural institutions in Lithuania and abroad.

Facilities and Collections

The LRSC operates from two primary locations, encompassing about 14,000 square feet of facilities:

• Archive and Library: Houses a 75,000 volume library, a variety of archival materials, periodicals, and audio-visual collections dedicated to Lithuanian culture and history.

• Lithuanian Museum & Specialized Libraries: Includes significant collections such as the Thomas Remeikis Political Science Library, the Jonas Dainauskas History Library, and the Milda Budrys Medical Museum, among others.

Publications and Research

The LRSC is actively involved in scholarly publishing and has released over 50 books, contributing to the documentation and understanding of Lithuanian culture and history. Notably, William Urban's book "Tannenberg and After" received substantial recognition and is considered among the top historical publications of its time.

Programs and Initiatives

The center's activities encompass:

• Research: Conducting research on collected materials and promoting scholarly inquiry into Lithuanian studies.
• Public Exhibits: Organizing exhibitions to educate the public about Lithuanian heritage and history.
• Collaboration: Partnering with Lithuanian cultural institutions, universities, and libraries to enhance its outreach and educational efforts.

Leadership

The LRSC's leadership includes prominent figures in Lithuanian studies. The current president is Kristina Lapienyte, while Robert A. Vitas serves as the chairman of the board.

Community Involvement and Support

The organization's operations are primarily funded through donations from the Lithuanian American community and partnerships with various foundations. This support enhances its capacity to preserve Lithuanian cultural heritage and engage in educational activities.

Conclusion

The Lithuanian Research & Studies Center Inc. plays a crucial role in safeguarding and promoting Lithuanian culture and scholarship. Through its extensive collections, research initiatives, and community engagement, it serves as a vital resource for scholars and the general public interested in Lithuania's rich historical and cultural contributions.