PIASA’s archives continue to grow

PIASA’s archives continue to grow —not only in size, but in accessibility, scope, and global significance. Recent milestones in our archival digitalization project mark an important step in ensuring that Poland’s cultural heritage is preserved and shared with broader audiences.

The full digitization of the Potocki Family Papers represents a landmark achievement. Spanning five centuries, this extraordinary collection reflects the intertwined histories of Poland’s noble families, estates, and political life. Its very survival—rescued from possible destruction in 1979—speaks to PIASA’s long-standing commitment to preservation. Today, through digital access, these materials enter a new chapter, connecting scholars across borders and generations.

Equally significant is the digitization of the Marguerite Merington Collection on Ignacy Jan Paderewski, a rich and multifaceted archive that captures the life of one of Poland’s most iconic figures. Through letters, interviews, and manuscripts, the collection reveals Paderewski not only as a virtuoso pianist, but also as a statesman embedded in transatlantic cultural and political networks.

Together, these projects demonstrate how PIASA’s archives are evolving into a dynamic, interconnected research environment. By expanding digital access, strengthening institutional collaborations, and bringing hidden collections to light, PIASA is not simply preserving the past—it is actively shaping the future of historical inquiry.