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Hansen, Ralph W.

 Person

Dates

  • Existence: 1927-

Biographical History

Ralph W. Hansen (born 1927) was a librarian at Brigham Young University, Stanford University, and Boise State University.

Ralph W. Hansen was born in 1927. He holds bachelor and master degrees in history from Brigham Young University and a master in library science from UC Berkeley. He was first appointed Curator of the Stanford Collection in 1962. He donated World War II memorabilia to a new museum in Italy, where Hansen was stationed in 1946. Ralph Hansen came to Boise State University in 1979 to be the associate university librarian. During his time at the library at Boise State, Hansen oversaw both technical and public services — jointly and separately at given times. In addition to serving in these roles, he also directed the momentous processing project of the Senator Frank Church Papers. Hansen's fondness and enthusiasm for his work extended beyond collaboration with colleagues and patrons to a family effort including his wife, Lillian, who graciously volunteered her time in support of library projects. Following Hansen's retirement in 1989, he continued working for the library as a volunteer, combing through publishers' catalogs and academic journals to recommend books to purchase for the McCain Collection for Western Life. He also has supported the library with his gifts. Through his generous and loyal contributions of library resources and his genuine passion for learning and sharing knowledge, Hansen's support of the library benefits students and staff alike.

Citation:
Boise State University. Library. Special Collections Dept. The Frank Church papers, 1988: t.p. (Ralph W. Hansen)

UPB files, May 9, 2014 (librarian at Brigham Young University, Stanford University, and Boise State University; b. 1927)

Archives West, website viewed September 11, 2017 (Ralph W. Hansen Papers; archivist and librarian at Brigham Young University (1953-1962), Stanford University (1962-1979), and Boise State University (1979-1989); born 1927; native of New York City; bachelor and masters, history, Brigham Young University, 1951 and 1954; author)

Found in 6 Collections and/or Records:

Brigham Young University fraternity artifacts

 Collection — Box 1: [Barcode: 31197233236543]
Identifier: UA 858
Scope and Contents Includes paddle used during Hansen's initiation into the Tausig (Tau Sigma) social unit at Brigham Young University. Contains several signatures of active members, gathered by Hansen as a pledge (prospective member). Also includes Hansen's Tausig membership certificate, January 9, 1848, and membership cards for Tau Sigma, Phi Alpha Theta, and Intercollegiate Knights. Also includes sew-on cloth emblem for Intercollegiate Knights. Cover letter, June 14, 1996, contains additional information...
Dates: approximately 1948-1950

H. P. Hansen letter

 File — Folder 1: [Barcode: 31197231244960]
Identifier: UA 589
Scope and Contents

Contains correspondence to Brigham Young University manuscript librarian Ralph Hansen about recollections of teachers, classes, housing, and life as a Brigham Young Academy student.

Dates: 1961 April 4

Ralph W. Hansen papers

 Collection
Identifier: MSS 6737
Scope and Contents

Contains materials pertaining to the life and career of Ralph W. Hansen. Materials consist of an interview transcript, a booklet, and photographs which document his career as a student, librarian, and archivist at several universities. His autobiography, Musings on the Life of Ralph W. Hansen, documents his personal and professional journey. Dated 1947-2014.

Dates: 1947-2014

Ralph W. Hansen slides and artifact

 Collection — Folder 1: [Barcode: 31197227623235]
Identifier: MSS 3355
Scope and Contents

Collection includes slides taken by Ralph W. Hansen, which show the archives in these early years. Also enclosed is a piece of the goal post of BYU's first football game win against University of Utah, when at the conclusion of the game, the goal posts were torn down by BYU students.

Dates: approximately 1950-1959

Oral history interview

 File — Folder 1: [Barcode: 31197230238039]
Identifier: MSS SC 312
Scope and Contents

Typescript of an interview by George Addy and Ralph W. Hansen, both of Brigham Young University, concerning Morley's work. Frances Morley was also present.

Dates: 1961

Ralph W. Hansen correspondence with Paul W. Brechler, 1961-1962

 File — Box 1: [Barcode: 31197232497823], Folder: 1
Identifier: MSS 280

Additional filters:

Type
Collection 5
Archival Object 1
 
Subject
Colleges and Universities 3
Education 3
Letters 2
Agriculture and Natural Resources 1
Archives -- Utah -- Provo -- Photographs 1