The Library Company has collected graphic materials throughout its long history. A separate Print & Photograph Department was formed in 1971 to manage, provide access, and more actively develop the Library Company’s graphics holdings. Specializing in works by Philadelphia photographers and printmakers, and images that document the city of Philadelphia, the collection visually records the history of the Philadelphia area from the late 17th to the mid 20th century. In addition to Philadelphia area materials, the graphics collections include historical and commemorative prints, portraits, and political cartoons documenting American history at the national level from the 18th through the early 20th century.