“Imagine stepping into a hub where the past and present converge” I tell you, right here at the American Center of Research, ACOR. Founded in 1968, ACOR in Amman is more than just a research center. It is an international non-profit academic institution. It advances the understanding of Jordan and the Middle East. It examines both the past and present.
ACOR began as the American Research Center in Amman. It aimed to support North American projects in the Middle East. This included Jordan, Syria, and Saudi Arabia. Today, ACOR continues to work with these countries. Its primary base remains in Amman.
ACOR promotes knowledge through research and dialogue. Its extensive library and archives provide invaluable resources. Fellowship and scholarship programs support scholars from around the world. Residential facilities offer a home away from home for researchers.
Let’s step inside. The library holds over 40000 books and journals. These cover archaeology, history, and Near Eastern languages. JSTOR access is also available. ACOR offers offices and workrooms to support field projects. Computer facilities and wireless internet keep researchers connected. A lecture room hosts talks and presentations. The archaeological conservation laboratory is state-of-the-art.
ACOR also helps researchers in other ways. They provide introductions and advice. This helps with conducting research projects in Jordan and the region.
ACOR has supported many important archaeological projects. These include ‘Ain Ghazal and the Amman Citadel’s Temple of Hercules. They also include the Petra Church Project.
In 2016, ACOR started a project to digitize photographs of Jordan. These photos came from private collections. The digital archive is available online. It preserves Jordan’s past for future generations.
ACOR presents many fellowships each year. These fellowships support students from Jordan, the United States, and other countries. These include the NEH Fellowship and the ACOR-CAORC fellowships.
ACOR has a strict policy. It does not get involved in modern politics.
ACOR’s center in Amman underwent renovations from 2021-2023. The renovations expanded the library and modernized the systems.
For over 50 years, ACOR has been a beacon. It supports North American learning and research in the Middle East. ACOR’s mission embraces a wide range of disciplines. These include the arts, economics, and political science.
ACOR’s work significantly contributes to broad scholarly perspectives. It examines studies of the ancient past and the contemporary world. Scholars use ACOR’s resources to explore various topics.
ACOR is governed by a Board of Trustees. The trustees include academics and professionals. They review the center’s program, activities, and budget.
So, as you leave the American Center of Research, consider its impact. ACOR’s dedication to preserving history enriches our understanding. It ensures the past informs the future.