The Southern Maryland Studies Center (SMSC), located on the La Plata campus of the College of Southern Maryland, is a regional archival repository and research center that seeks to collect, preserve, and provide access to materials that document the history and culture of Southern Maryland, an area encompassing Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s Counties, together with the southern portions of Anne Arundel and Prince George’s Counties.
The Southern Maryland Studies Center was founded by the College of Southern Maryland in 1976 in order to provide a central location for research on this historically rich region. It is open to students, historians, genealogists, and all members of the public.
Today, the Southern Maryland Studies Center is located on the first floor of the Learning Resource (LR) Building, with Reading Room access in LR116. Our recently renovated archival storage facilities include a state-of-the-art HVAC system, extensive compact shelving and map cases, as well as storage for preservation supplies to ensure that collections are continually maintained for the future.
Review this guide to learn more about the Southern Maryland Studies Center's collections, services, and opportunities to get involved.
The Southern Maryland Studies Center Archives house over 200 unique archival collections consisting of materials dating from the 16th century to the present and provide valuable insight to the economic, social, and political currents that continue to shape the Southern Maryland region, including:
The Maryland Collection contains printed and published materials, including: