The Robert L. Bogomolny (RLB) Library community honors the memory of Tom Hollowak, retired Associate Director for Special Collections and Archives, Emeritus, who passed away on July 31 following a courageous battle with cancer. Tom’s contributions were pivotal in shaping the archives at the University of Baltimore (UBalt), significantly enriching our understanding of Baltimore and its diverse communities.A lifelong Baltimore resident, Tom's passion for archives and history was deeply intertwined with his heritage. He dedicated much of his life to researching and documenting the Polish community in Baltimore, becoming a leading authority on Maryland Polonia history. His archival journey began at the Enoch Pratt Free Library and eventually led him to earn a master's degree in history from the University of Maryland.Tom joined UBalt's Langsdale Library in 1990, quickly taking initiative to revive the Special Collections. He actively engaged UBalt’s history faculty, encouraging students to utilize archival resources and collaborating to acquire additional historical records. He organized reunions for community organizations whose records were housed at UBalt, generating essential volunteer and financial support for the archives.Photo of Tom Hollowak, Jessica Elfenbein, and Elizabeth Nix from Langsdale Link, 2011An accomplished author, Tom published extensively on Maryland Polonia, underscoring his dedication to Baltimore’s Polish community. He also authored a visual history of the University of Baltimore, to celebrate UBalt’s 75th anniversary. In this work, Tom curated archival images and historical narratives, vividly capturing the university's legacy.Aiden Faust, Associate Director of Special Collections and Archives, described Tom as a tireless advocate for accessible archives:“Tom wasn't afraid to speak up and go against the grain in archival circles. His practical approach to our profession was user-centered and focused on accessibility, long before these concepts gained the prominence they enjoy today. Forward thinking, unfazed by criticism, and relentlessly curious about Baltimore's politics and history -- that's how I will remember Tom Hollowak.”One of Tom’s most significant archival achievements, as Aiden noted, was the pioneering digital initiative, “Archives 24/7,” launched in 2006. This innovative project made extensive archival materials available online, laying the foundation for UBalt’s current robust digitization and electronic document delivery systems.Tom was also deeply involved in UBalt’s 100th anniversary celebrations, serving as a dedicated member of the history committee. He significantly contributed to preserving the university’s heritage through participation in The University of Baltimore Stories: 100th Anniversary Oral History Project (2021–2025). View Tom's Oral History interview here.The RLB Library invites the UBalt community to honor Tom’s legacy by continuing to explore, celebrate, and preserve Baltimore’s unique history, a mission Tom passionately advanced throughout his life. His remarkable contributions will endure in the Special Collections and Archives he diligently nurtured at UBalt.
