Bookmobile in Mannheim, Germany
3/1952
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After the allied victory in World War II, the United States played a pivotal role in rebuilding Europe both physically and culturally. Programs such as the Marshall Plan were designed to rebuild Europe’s economy, and indirectly the US economy, with stimulus aid and necessary provisions such as food, fuel, and other staples.
Part of this humanitarian effort included developing cultural programs that served to boost morale in war-torn populations, as well as to create a positive international perception of America. The United States Information and Educational Exchange Act – popularly known as the Smith-Mundt Act – was passed in 1948 to “promote a better understanding of the United States in other countries, and to increase mutual understanding.” International efforts included sending out bookmobiles with materials and programs for cultural enrichment.
The original caption for this photograph reads: At Gross Sachson (population 1,900), 12% of the people are registered at the bookmobile. Eager children use their elbows to be first inside the car.
Part of this humanitarian effort included developing cultural programs that served to boost morale in war-torn populations, as well as to create a positive international perception of America. The United States Information and Educational Exchange Act – popularly known as the Smith-Mundt Act – was passed in 1948 to “promote a better understanding of the United States in other countries, and to increase mutual understanding.” International efforts included sending out bookmobiles with materials and programs for cultural enrichment.
The original caption for this photograph reads: At Gross Sachson (population 1,900), 12% of the people are registered at the bookmobile. Eager children use their elbows to be first inside the car.
This primary source comes from the Records of the U.S. Information Agency.
National Archives Identifier: 23932394
Full Citation: Photograph 306-CS-4A-2; U.S.I.S. Bookmobile, Mannheim, Germany; 3/1952; Photographs of Information Center Service Activities in Foreign Countries, 1948 - 1954; Records of the U.S. Information Agency, Record Group 306; National Archives at College Park, College Park, MD. [Online Version, https://docsteach.org/documents/document/bookmobile-mannheim-germany, September 7, 2024]Activities that use this document
- Cultural Diplomacy and the Smith-Mundt Act
Created by the National Archives Education Team
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