Poznań’s academic and cultural landscape has been enriched with a remarkable addition — 35 000 books from the now-closed Papal Institute for Ecclesiastical Studies in Rome. This extraordinary collection, featuring works on theology, history, literature, and Polish-Italian relations, has found a new home at the University of Adam Mickiewicz (UAM), symbolising decades of academic collaboration between the two institutions.
The Papal Institute’s Legacy
Founded in Rome to advance research on church history and theology, the Papal Institute for Ecclesiastical Studies became a beacon for scholars worldwide. For over five decades, it played a pivotal role in fostering research on topics such as Central and Eastern European Catholicism. However, financial constraints led to the institute’s closure in 2024.
Prof. Rafał Witkowski, UAM’s Vice-Rector for International Cooperation, highlighted the historical connection between the two institutions:
Since 1971, Papal Institute for Ecclesiastical Studies was directed by UAM alumnus Fr. Dr. Hieronim Fokciński SJ, who built strong academic bridges between Rome and Poznań. Over the years, UAM historians and researchers frequently visited PISK for study projects, particularly those focused on Polish history and Polish communities in Italy.
When Papal Institute for Ecclesiastical Studies faced closure, its leadership reached out to UAM, knowing the university’s deep ties to the institute. This outreach would mark the beginning of a monumental project.
The Journey of 35 000 Books Begins
The first step came in October 2024 when UAM received an unexpected call from Papal Institute for Ecclesiastical Studies’ leadership. They asked if the university would be interested in acquiring part of the library. What initially seemed like a modest donation quickly turned into something much larger.
They asked, ‘Would you like some books?’ and naturally, we said yes. But only later did we realise that by ‘some,’ they meant the entire collection. It was an overwhelming but incredible opportunity.
explained UAM doctoral student Przemysław Raczyk.
After thorough consultations with the university’s Library Directorate and meticulous planning, a team of four UAM doctoral candidates—Małgorzata Woźniak, Przemysław Raczyk, Adrian Sadowski, and Łukasz Skrobała—embarked on a mission to Rome in December. Over the course of an intense week, they dedicated themselves to organising, packing, and documenting the vast collection of 35 000 books, which amounted to 33 pallets. Despite the physical demands, the team found the task deeply fulfilling, knowing they were preserving an invaluable cultural and academic treasure for future generations.
A Homecoming to Poznań
Just before Christmas, the 35 000 books arrived in Poznań, where they were greeted with great excitement. Described as “the biggest gift UAM received in 2024” by the university’s press office, the collection represents not only an expansion of the university’s library but also the preservation of knowledge that might otherwise have been lost. Teams from the university’s main library and faculty libraries have already begun the careful process of sorting and cataloguing the books to integrate them into their collections.
The collection of 35 000 books is notable for its breadth. While theological works dominate, it also includes texts on European history, literary studies, and Polish-Italian cultural relations. These books provide a wealth of insights, with many serving as invaluable primary sources on Polish activity in Rome, making them a vital resource for researchers across various disciplines.
UAM’s Enduring Academic Mission
The addition of Papal Institute for Ecclesiastical Studies’ library reinforces UAM’s reputation as a centre for international research. Founded in 1919, UAM has grown into one of Poland’s most prestigious universities, with a long-standing commitment to humanities and cultural studies. Its relationship with Papal Institute for Ecclesiastical Studies exemplifies this dedication.
UAM’s history is deeply rooted in fostering international academic collaboration. This collection is not only a testament to that mission but also an invitation to explore shared cultural and historical connections between Poland and Italy.
noted Prof. Witkowski.
The legacy of Fr. Fokciński, who directed Papal Institute for Ecclesiastical Studies for over 30 years, lives on in this transfer. The 35 000 books serve as a reminder of his efforts to strengthen academic ties between the two institutions.
Preserving Knowledge for Future Generations
The task of organising and integrating the collection is expected to take several months, but its significance is already clear. By preserving these 35 000 books, UAM is not only honouring its past collaborations but also making these resources accessible for future generations of scholars.
This is more than just a logistical achievement. It’s about ensuring that knowledge, history, and culture are not lost but shared and built upon. These books will be a source of inspiration and discovery for decades to come.
Raczyk reflected.
As Poznań embraces this cultural treasure, the story of the Papal Institute for Ecclesiastical Studies library transfer stands as a testament to the power of academic collaboration and the enduring value of preserving our shared heritage.
