IOWA CITY — Seventeen historians, archivists, professors, authors, and donors with decades of public service — including as University of Iowa archivist and U.S. Supreme Court historian — are suing the State Historical Society of Iowa for haphazardly and without public input deciding to close its Iowa City research facility and archives.

“The Iowa Code explicitly requires the State of Iowa to maintain history research centers in both Des Moines and Iowa City,” according to the lawsuit filed Sept. 26 in Johnson County District Court. “Yet, without public input or a clear plan, state officials have begun dismantling the Iowa City archive, laying off staff, and removing collections — many of which were donated under the condition that they remain accessible in Iowa City. Seventeen historians, archivists, professors, authors, and donors with decades of public service are suing the State Historical Society of Iowa for its decision to close its Iowa City research facility and archives." A court hearing is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on October 14, 2025, at the Johnson County Courthouse.