Keeneland Library: A Vital Resource Preserving Kentucky’s Horse Racing History

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Keeneland Library is home to an extensive collection of horse racing history, featuring approximately 30,000 books and 25 million articles. This unique resource, overseen by library director Roda Ferraro, plays a critical role in preserving and making accessible the rich legacy of Kentucky’s horse racing industry.

Ferraro, who has worked at the library since 2014, has been the director for the past year. Her dedication to the library’s mission is evident as she facilitates research for individuals interested in this niche area. “From that first week, I knew I was completely hooked,” Ferraro stated, reflecting on her experience. “The collections were just so niche and so broad.”

The Keeneland Library has operated for over 85 years, traditionally requiring researchers to visit the location in person to access its collections. In an age where information is often just a Google search away, the library stands apart. Researchers must directly contact Ferraro and her team to assist in sifting through the wealth of history housed within the library’s walls. “For turf writers or sports writers that we work with a lot, they were at a clear advantage if they lived close by,” Ferraro explained.

Ferraro has connected around 10,000 researchers to the resources found at the Keeneland Library, a testament to the valuable role it plays in connecting people with Kentucky’s most significant industry. “It’s so gratifying,” she said. “There aren’t a lot of parallels for what we do out there.”

Daily operations within the library focus on education and outreach. Ferraro is committed not only to aiding researchers but also to creating exhibits and engaging with younger audiences to cultivate an appreciation for the sport’s history. “Just the energy and the passion that people bring to what it is that they’re creating here. That’s just so rewarding,” she noted.

As the library preserves important artifacts and knowledge, it remains the solitary institution globally dedicated to this specialized field. The Keeneland Library is not just a repository of information; it is a vital community resource fostering learning and a deeper understanding of horse racing’s enduring significance to Kentucky.

In a world where digital information often overshadows physical archives, the Keeneland Library stands resilient, ensuring that the legacy of horse racing is preserved and accessible for future generations.