Frequently Asked Questions

About the Archives & Center

What is the Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music (BSACAM)?

The BSACAM is the official repository for Bruce Springsteen’s archival materials and a research and education center dedicated to exploring the story of American music and its impact on American history, life, and culture.

It is not. We tell broad stories about American history, life, and culture with our collections, exhibits, programs, publications, and more. We incorporate music from all genres, across centuries.

We are housed at Monmouth University, which straddles West Long Branch and Long Branch at the New Jersey shore. Our new building opens in late Spring 2026.

Our collection was initially started by fans in 2001, before moving to Monmouth University in 2011. We became Bruce’s official repository in 2017, and broke ground on our new Center in 2023. See more about our history here.

We are a registered 501c3. We fundraise for both our operating and capital expenses.

No, we do not.

Our Partnership with Monmouth University

How does the Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music benefit Monmouth University?

The BSACAM strengthens Monmouth University’s academic profile by providing unparalleled primary sources for teaching, research, and experiential learning. Students gain access to a world-class collection, internships, and real-world opportunities in archival studies, public history, music industry, and the arts.

Yes. Paid student workers assist with archival processing, exhibit design, digital humanities projects, event production, communications, and more. These hands-on experiences help students build professional skills and portfolios, and prepare them for life after Monmouth.

Several Monmouth courses incorporate our collections, exhibitions, or staff expertise. Faculty often collaborate with us on curriculum development and research initiatives.

Absolutely. We sponsor lectures, concerts, film screenings, symposia, and professional development programs that enrich campus life and support faculty and student engagement.

As the official repository for Bruce Springsteen and a national hub for American music studies, the Center draws global attention, distinguished scholars, artists, and visitors to campus—enhancing the University’s reputation and attracting prospective students.

Yes. The Archives supports faculty research, visiting scholars, and collaborative grant projects. Expanded opportunities—including fellowships, residencies, and interdisciplinary labs—will grow with the opening of the new museum.

Visiting the Center

When will the new Center open?

The new Center is currently under construction at Monmouth University and is expected to open in late spring 2026.

Yes. The new Center will feature rotating and permanent exhibitions about Bruce Springsteen and American music history more broadly. See more here.

Ticketing information, hours, and admission details will be announced closer to opening. We expect to use timed ticketing initially.

Yes. The museum is being designed with ADA accessibility in mind.

Using the Archives

How can researchers access the collections?

Qualified researchers may request appointments to view original archival materials in our Center when we open.

We are excited to share that yes, fans will also be able to access the collection! By appointment, fans will be able to access curated digitized material, which will be changed out regularly. This allows us to make additional content not seen in the exhibits available, while safeguarding priceless original materials.

Select digitized materials will be available online as the digital archive expands. Some items will always require an in-person visit due to rights or handling restrictions.

Yes. Our staff supports scholarly and public research projects.

Collections & Donations

What types of materials are in the Archives?

Our holdings include photographs, audio recordings, video, manuscripts, memorabilia, set lists, correspondence, and artifacts documenting Bruce Springsteen’s life, career, and cultural impact.

We welcome donations of relevant archival materials, American music artifacts, and items connected to Bruce Springsteen or related cultural history. We do have to ensure we have the space to safeguard your treasures, so please reach out to discuss artifact donations in advance.

Our collecting priorities align with our mission—preserving Bruce Springsteen’s legacy and documenting the diverse history of American music and its communities.

Education & Programs

What educational programs do you offer?

We partner with Monmouth University, middle and high school educators, and community organizations to provide workshops, public lectures, professional development, and curriculum resources.

Yes! School and youth group visits will be available when the new Center opens. Information on scheduling and programming will be posted in advance.

We offer concerts, talks, screenings, and special programs year-round, both on campus and in partnership with other institutions. Subscribe to our calendar, here.

Support & Involvement

How can I support the Archives & Center?

We are a registered 501c3, and every dollar matters! You can donate here.

Volunteer opportunities—including for docents and program support—will expand as we approach the new Center’s opening. Stay tuned!

Join our mailing list and follow us on social media for announcements, behind-the-scenes updates, and programming details. See all relevant links here.

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