Special Collections of Allara Library was founded to preserve & provide access to the history of Pikeville College, now UPIKE, and our Appalachian area.
The Frank M. Allara Library at the University of Pikeville first opened its doors in 1991. In 1994, the Special Collections and Archives became available to the public. It was founded to collect, preserve, and provide access to the history of both Pikeville College, now known as the University of Pikeville, and the history and culture of the Appalachian area from which the college grew. Since the
06/18/2026
Breaking ground and building futures—this moment marks the groundbreaking for the Armington Science Center. 🏗️🔬 A shovel, a hillside, and a vision for innovation that would shape generations of scientists. Who remembers watching this dream take root?
06/17/2026
Check out this awesome postcard for yourself on the Internet Archive! https://archive.org/details/nby_1B417
06/16/2026
Down Mare Creek Road is a collection of poems written by Ernestine Adkins Collins over a period of 20 years. From her childhood years spent on Mare Creek Road in Floyd County, KY, and through all her life experiences, Ernestine’s poetry reflects a life well-lived.
Ernestine’s book is available in digital format on the Internet Archive, here: https://archive.org/details/downmarecreekroa0000mead/mode/2up
The print copy is also available through our general collection, here: https://upike.on.worldcat.org/oclc/34407385
06/16/2026
A beautiful picture of the First National Bank of Pikeville, shared by our awesome, local Museum, the Big Sandy Heritage Center Museum. Make sure you check it out when you have a chance! It's rich with local history and interesting artifacts.
First National Bank of Pikeville, KY, 1954:
Because everything we're experiencing now will one day be part of our shared history.
06/11/2026
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Three students, one dorm room, and a snapshot of campus life from days gone by. 🛏️📚 Captured in one of the girls’ dormitories, this moment reminds us that college was never just about classes—it's about connection. Who else remembers late-night chats, shared notes, and friendships that started right here?
06/10/2026
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Did you know? Both Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis were born in Kentucky—one year and just over 100 miles apart. One led the Union. The other led the Confederacy. Same state, very different destinies. 🗺️📜
06/05/2026
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A wintry view looking out over Kentucky Avenue, with Derriana Hall standing tall on the left. The quiet road and frosted trees paint a serene picture of campus life in colder days gone by. Moments like these remind us how much the landscape has changed—and how much history still lingers in every corner. 🐻🌨️