The San Francisco-based Koret Foundation has announced a $1 million grant to the Bancroft Library at the University of California, Berkeley in support of renovations and seismic improvements to the historic structure.

Purchased by the university in 1905, the Bancroft Library is renowned for its vast collection of materials related to California and the American West. Among the its prized possessions are images of the Gold Rush, records of the Donner Party, the Mark Twain Papers, and Berkeley's archives. The library, which celebrates its centennial this year, plans to replace or upgrade its computer network, elevators, plumbing and air conditioning, research and teaching areas, and preservation capabilities.

"In addition to supporting hundreds of Berkeley classes and visiting scholars, and working with local school districts to integrate historical materials into K-12 curricula, the Bancroft Library is one of the few special collections libraries open to the public," said foundation president Tad Taube. "We are pleased to be able to provide a lead gift, helping to ensure the Bancroft's future as a leading center for scholarship and instruction, not only for the university community, but for the community at large."