Special Libraries of Antiquity

Written by: Jenny Roach Edited by: Gabrielle S. Bates and Adina Vega We often think of special libraries as “offshoots” of traditional libraries–but what if they came first in history? In order to answer this question, we’ll need to travel back in time to Mesopotamia. There’s an overwhelming body of Read more…

The David Bowie Archives

Written by: Adina Vega Edited by Gabrielle S. Bates and Jenny Roach Bowie performing as The Thin White Duke on the Station to Station tour in 1976. Innovative. Revolutionary. Brave. Bowie’s life was art, and his music has influenced artists, film, fashion, and theater for the past 50 years. He Read more…

The Chicano Movement Archives

Written by: Adina Vega Edited by: Gabrielle S. Vasquez Bates A cartoon featured La Cucaracha, a Chicano rights newspaper featured in the Archives.  March 31st commemorates one of the most influential Mexican-American labor leaders and civil rights activists, César Chávez. Along with Mexican-American labor leader Dolores Huerta, he co-founded the Read more…

The Library of Smells

Written by: Gabrielle S. Bates After a day of heavy rain, the air carries a scent of renewal and refreshment. Petrichor is the combined smell of plant oils, bacteria, and ozone. Our sense of smell can stir up memories, like an event, a childhood candy, or the scent of a Read more…

The Michelson Cinema Research Library

Written by: Gabrielle S. Bates Special Libraries arise from passion. A passion to preserve, contribute to history, or share and bond with others. The Michelson Cinema Research Library was born from one couple’s passion. Harold Michelson was a storyboard artist and production designer. His wife, Lillian, was a film researcher. Read more…

Welcome to Spooky Season

Written by Ghoul-brielle S. Bates Pumpkin lattes are steaming, sweaters are being dusted off, the leaves are changing colors and the temperatures have begun to drop (except in California). Now that it’s Fall, some of us are preparing for Halloween celebrations. In case you need a little inspiration, let’s take Read more…