CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) -- A Central Virginia civic group is keeping Virginia history alive by donating its records to the University of Virginia. 

The records from the Senior Statesmen of Virginia preserve the civic life of Charlottesville and surrounding counties as shared through SSV programs over the past 17 years.

“The SSV Board is very pleased that our records will be maintained for the benefit of our community," said SSV Board President Sue Friedman.  "Years and decades from now, those who come after us can learn of the challenges and opportunities that shaped our history."

Materials that become part of the Small Special Collections Library will be available for research by the public in the collection’s reading room. 

To view any materials at the Small Library, go to https://virginia.aeon.atlas-sys.com/logon to create an account. A photo ID will be needed on the first visit to complete the registration.

“This timely gift will be a wonderful addition to our collections that document local civic life,” said Krystal Appiah, curator of the Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library. “We are thankful to the SSV for preserving local history.”

SSV started in 1996 and is currently presenting 11 monthly programs per year at Westminster Canterbury of the Blue Ridge. Programs are free and open to the public.