National Collections Day

Young man examining a collection of stamps in a cozy vintage study, wearing glasses and a tweed blazer, surrounded by antique books.. — National collections day illustration

Are you ready for a day dedicated to all things collections? It's National Collections Day, folks! Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of collecting and discover some fun facts along the way.

When is Collections Day?

It's national collections day on the 14th July.

A Brief History of National Collections Day

Did you know that National Collections Day first gained popularity on July 14, 2016? Since then, collectors from all walks of life have celebrated this special day by showcasing their beloved collections and sharing their passion for unique and interesting items with the world.

Whether it's stamps, coins, vintage toys, or even rare bottle caps, collectors take pride in curating and preserving these mini treasures. National Collections Day serves as a way to recognize and appreciate the dedication collectors put into their beloved hobbies.

The Internet's Influence on Collecting

In the age of the internet, collecting has reached new heights. Online marketplaces and forums have made it easier than ever for collectors to find, buy, and swap their prized possessions. No longer limited by geographic constraints, collectors can connect with fellow enthusiasts from around the globe, expanding their knowledge and expanding their collection.

Not only has the internet made collecting more accessible, but it has also spawned entirely new categories of collectibles. Digital items, like non-fungible tokens (NFTs), have exploded in popularity, offering a unique and modern twist on the age-old hobby. Whether it's an iconic meme or a virtual piece of art, digital collectors are staking their claim in this digital age.

A Fun Fact About Collecting

Did you know that the world's largest collection of rubber ducks is more than 8,000 strong? Talk about taking bath time to a whole new level! This impressive collection hails from a variety of countries and features ducks of all shapes, sizes, and themes. Now, that's a quacktastic collection!

History behind the term 'Collections'

14th century

The Birth of Collections

Collections have their roots in the 14th century when they were initially referred to as 'collecta' in Latin. The term 'collecta' originated from the past participle of the Latin verb 'colligere,' which means 'to gather together' or 'to bring together.' In the medieval period, collections were primarily associated with religious activities, where they referred to the gathering of donations or offerings during church services.

17th century

Emergence of Private Collections

During the 17th century, the concept of collections expanded beyond religious contexts. Wealthy individuals started amassing personal collections of objects, such as rare books, fine art, artifacts, and curiosities. These private collections served various purposes, including personal enjoyment, social status, and intellectual pursuits. The term 'collections' became commonly used to describe these gatherings of items for aesthetic or intellectual satisfaction.

18th century

Establishment of Public Collections

In the 18th century, the notion of collections expanded further with the establishment of public collections. Museums, libraries, and galleries began to systematically organize and display curated collections of artworks, scientific specimens, historic artifacts, and more. These public collections aimed to educate, preserve, and inspire the public. The term 'collections' became synonymous with the vast array of cultural and natural treasures stored in these institutions.

19th century

Classification and Cataloging

Throughout the 19th century, the management of collections evolved with the advent of systematic classification and cataloging methods. Scholars and experts developed various systems to arrange and document items within collections based on their characteristics, themes, or historical relevance. These methods facilitated research, retrieval, and improved accessibility to the vast amount of material preserved in collections. The concept of collections as organized and structured repositories gained prominence.

20th century

Digital Collections and Beyond

The 20th century brought about revolutionary advancements in technology and communications, immensely transforming the concept of collections. With the rise of digitalization, collections expanded to include virtual libraries, online museums, and digital archives. The internet and digitization mediums have made cultural heritage and information accessible to a global audience, enriching the way collections are experienced and shared. Today, collections continue to evolve and encompass a vast range of physical, digital, and virtual forms, contributing to the preservation and dissemination of knowledge and culture.