University of Virginia Library

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Origin and Purpose

The Extension work of the University of Virginia has gradually
evolved during a period of years. Even before the term "university extension"
came into common use, the University of Virginia was in various
ways giving of its resources to the people of the state who could not come
to Charlottesville. About 1915 conscious effort was made to create within
the University an organization through which its resources could be
made more available to the people of the state as a whole. As a result of
this action, the Extension Division came into being and in 1920 was established
as a separate branch or division of the University.

The Extension Division exists to reveal in some degree to the people
of the state both individually and collectively the secrets of the University's
libraries and laboratories. Not all who would, can come to the University
for guidance and assistance. In so far as its resources permit,
however, the University can through its Extension Division reach and assist
many individuals far removed from the institution.