On the sunny autumn day of October 12, 2013, representatives from more than 80 archives gathered to showcase their collections in the Doheny Memorial Library at USC for the Eighth Annual LA as Subject Archives Bazaar. The Loyola Marymount University William H. Hannon Library’s Department of Archives and Special Collections joined this great community event once again with Manuscripts Curator Dr. Clay Stalls and Special Collections Librarian Rachel Wen-Paloutzian. Our neighboring tables, including Orange County Archives, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Cal State Northridge, and Glendale Public Library, showed the wide variety of archival repositories participating in the Los Angeles Archives Bazaar.
It was a day of high energy with hundreds of visitors who came to explore the history of Los Angeles. Over 120 people stopped at the LMU Archives and Special Collections table with curiosity and good questions. In the spirit of celebrating the diverse history of Southern California, visitors were eager to share their knowledge, stories, and feelings with us. One of them said, “It was heartfelt to know that so much effort has put into preserving L.A. history.” Many were interested in the early development of Los Angeles. One visitor was passionate about preserving early 20th century historical buildings as important cultural heritages. Others were interested in learning about LMU history and our digital collections. Several people were investigating to start up local community archives and museums. A nice surprise was that many LMU locals dropped by to say hello. They were delighted to find out about our archival resources and various library programs available to the public for free.
Interesting conversations and meaningful connections were the highlights of the day. When an oversized mule appeared in the middle of the library, it caused quite a bit of excitement. To commemorate of the centenary of the Los Angeles Aqueduct, Lauren Bon and the Metabolic Studio will perform One Hundred Mules Walking the Los Angeles Aqueduct, a parade of 100 mules traveling the water path from the Owens Valley to Los Angeles. It was another happy coincidence that LMU was also an active participant in commemorating the L. A. Aqueduct. Sponsored by the Metabolic Studio, we will complete and unveil three digital collections in November, including the J. D. Black Papers, an especially valuable addition to the dialog on water resources from the perspectives of the Owens Valley residents.
Alongside many interesting and lively programs, free goodies and cool merchandise ensured that everyone went home with a smile.
