We’re happy to welcome The Liberaal Archief (Liberal Archive) to the Flickr Commons. Founded in 1982 and based in Ghent, in the Flemish part of Belgium, the Archive collects, preserves, and maintains the heritage of individuals and organizations.

Its collections range from roughly 1800 to the present day, and include archives, books and periodicals (60,000 titles), as well as visual media, including photos (100,000), posters (6,600), banners (320), diplomas (400), porcelain cards, (5,000), medals (800), and a museum collection.

“The Liberaal Archief is an independent scientific institution open for all,” said Marc Haegeman of the Archive. “Researchers are welcome in its reading room and the Liberaal Archief regularly publishes scientific studies and inventories, and organises exhibitions.”

One photo collection noted by Haegeman is the World War I series from Jean Pecher, who served in the Belgian Army during the conflict. Another collection illustrates the diversity of organizations inspired by European liberal ideology, from the late 19th century until World War II, with topics such as politics, women, youth and students, charity and welfare, sports, unions, music, and the arts.

You can also find the Liberaal Archief at their website, or on Twitter and Facebook.

If you represent an organization that seeks to promote the free sharing of digital imagery without copyright, you can read more about the Flickr Commons here. You can also encourage your local historical, cultural, or arts organization to participate.

Thanks and Welcome to the Flickr Commons, Liberaal Archief!
Flickr Community Team