CSU Los Angeles

Highlights
The Special Collections department of the John F. Kennedy Memorial Library holds rare, expensive, and unusual library materials, as well as distinctive topical collections that enhance the educational resources of the community. A notable book within Special Collections is the Klemscott Chaucer (PR 1850 1896), considered one of the greatest examples of fine printing in the modern era. A notable distinctive collection is the Perry R. Long Collection of books on printing and graphic design. From Gutenberg to circa 1960, this collection contains approximately 3,000 titles on the history of fine printing. In 1966, the library initiated a program to collect papers of distinguished local government officials. Among the collections are papers of John C. Holland, a member of the Los Angeles City Council from 1943-66. During this period of dramatic change in Los Angeles, Holland worked on issues such as Bunker Hill, Chavez Ravine, and the 1965 Watts riots. The Special Collections department also has several performing arts-related collections that include the Anthony Quinn Collection of Film Scripts and the James Newton Collection that documents the life and work of the acclaimed jazz composer, flutist, and conductor.