The Plym Foundation Endowed Library Collection in Architecture was established in 1997, in honor of Lawrence J. Plym by the Plym Foundation, a charitable organization created in 1952 that focuses on Education in the United States. Larry was a strong believer that America’s heritage must be defended, and felt that the best way to preserve it was through the education of its citizens.

Larry, a longtime friend and supporter of the Notre Dame, attended the University of Illinois, graduated from Babson College in 1929, and received an honorary doctoral degree from Hillsdale College in 1989. Larry served as president of Kawneer, Niles Broadcasting, and the Daily Star. He was the father of three children, Sarah P. Campbell, J. Eric Plym, and Andrew J. Plym.

The Plym Foundation Collection focuses on the acquisition of materials for the study of vernacular and traditional architecture. These strong collections complement the School of Architecture’s emphasis on classical architecture and theory, while expanding upon the notion of classicism to encompass traditions in various cultures. Holdings reflect the study of traditional building design throughout the world—in both rural and urban contexts—allowing examination of traditional settlements and structures from the broadest possible geographic, historical, and cultural perspectives.