The Newberry, founded in 1887, is a historic cultural institution in Chicago dedicated to facilitating learning and research. It aims to be a portal to human history, from the 15th century to the present, welcoming people from all walks of life to explore topics of interest, discover family history, take classes, and learn something new. The mission emphasizes inclusivity and the support of a wide range of disciplines, including history, genealogy, arts, design, and education.
The Newberry's Long-Term Fellowships, specifically the Lloyd Lewis Fellowships in American History, are designed to support scholars in conducting innovative and groundbreaking research in any area of American history that aligns with the Newberry’s collections. The program aims to advance scholarship across various fields, encouraging fellows to develop new interpretations and expand our understanding of the past while immersed in the Newberry's vibrant community of learning. Fellows are given the time, space, and resources to pursue significant works of scholarship, make new discoveries, and present their works in progress. Projects that propose productive use of the Newberry’s collections are more likely to be awarded.