University The charity successfully delivers the world’s largest archive of street newspapers to Glasgow Caledonian University.

Glasgow Caledonian University Receives World’s Largest Collection of Street Newspapers

Glasgow, Scotland – Glasgow Caledonian University has recently been gifted with the world’s largest collection of street newspapers, including landmark editions of The Big Issue. This collection of around 8000 newspapers and magazines, sold by people experiencing homelessness and poverty, has been handed over by the International Network of Street Papers (INSP).

Founded in 1994, the Glasgow-based charity represents 92 street papers in 35 countries. The newspapers in this collection contain stories written by the vendors themselves, revolving around their personal experiences of homelessness and poverty around the world. This provides a rich cultural and social history, making it a valuable resource for students, researchers, and the public.

Kirsty Menzies, the Assistant Archivist at Glasgow Caledonian University, expressed her excitement about the collection, stating, “We are thrilled to receive this collection as it contains 30 years of social history, not just in the UK but internationally. These publications have given a voice to the homeless, not only on issues of poverty but also on a range of social issues. This makes the collection an excellent resource for our students, researchers, and the public.”

Menzies also noted that the collection highlights the presence of street papers in other countries and showcases what can be achieved through international cooperation and collaboration. As the University for the Common Good, this collection aligns perfectly with Glasgow Caledonian’s themes of social justice and social innovation.

Mike Findlay-Agnew, Chief Executive of INSP, expressed his satisfaction with the collection finding a suitable home at Glasgow Caledonian University. He stated, “It is great that our rich archive of street papers is going to a suitable home. Glasgow Caledonian University is strongly committed to social justice and therefore seems the perfect fit for our archives of street papers.” Findlay-Agnew hopes that this partnership will lead to more collaboration between INSP and Glasgow Caledonian in the future.

The Big Issue, founded by John Bird and Gordon Roddick in 1991, is one of the street newspapers included in this collection. It supports thousands of people across the UK to earn a legitimate income by selling the magazine. Last year, sales generated a collective income of around £4million, making a significant impact on the lives of those experiencing homelessness and poverty.

This generous donation from INSP will not only benefit the academic community at Glasgow Caledonian University but also shed light on the important voices and stories of those who are often marginalized in society.