Clippings, catalogs, organizational records, flyers, pamphlets, correspondence, manuscripts, press material, posters and other printed material make up the Lesbian Legacy Collection Subject Files, begun in 1996 by lesbian feminist activist and librarian, Yolanda Retter, at the ONE Institute / International Gay & Lesbian Archives (now the ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives.) The collection consists of over a thousand files related to lesbian history and the women's rights movement, circa 1960-2008.

In 1996, the ONE Institute / International Gay & Lesbian Archives (now the ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives) introduced three female members to its board of directors: Jeanne Córdova, Ivy Bottini and Karen Quimby. Along with other lesbian women on the ONE board, Córdova, Bottini and Quimby spearheaded a campaign to increase lesbian visibility at ONE and to develop a special collection within the archives, known as the Lesbian Legacy Collection. Karen Quimby served as its first director.

28.5 Linear Feet

Researchers wishing to publish materials must obtain permission in writing from ONE National Gay and Lesbian Archives as the physical owner. Researchers must also obtain clearance from the holder(s) of any copyrights in the materials. Note that ONE National Gay and Lesbian Archives can grant copyright clearance only for those materials for which we hold the copyright. It is the responsibility of the researcher to obtain copyright clearance for all other materials directly from the copyright holder(s).

The collection is open to researchers. There are no access restrictions.