Collection context
Summary
- Creators:
- Abstract:
- Clara Breed, known throughout San Diego as "The Library Lady," is credited with establishing San Diego's modern library system and with being the driving force behind the fundraising, planning, and building of the new Central Library Building. She was first hired as Children's Librarian in 1928 and throughout her career was a tireless advocate for children, books, and literacy. During World War II she provided Japanese-American children from San Diego with stamped and addressed post cards so they could write to her from their internment camps. For three years she sent letters, books, and supplies to the children in the camps. Those letters were the basis for the 2006 book by Joanne Oppenheim, "Dear Miss Breed: True Stories of the Japanese American Incarceration during World War II and A Librarian Who Made a Difference." In 1955 she was honored as "Woman of the Year" by the San Diego Women's Service Council and in 1993 received a commendation from President and Mrs. Clinton. In retirement, Miss Breed authored a centennial history of the library, "Turning the Pages: San Diego Public Library History, 1882-1982."
- Extent:
- 18 boxes, 10.75 cu. ft.
- Language:
- Preferred citation:
-
Clara E. Breed Collection. San Diego Public Library
Background
- Scope and content:
-
The primary collection contains a wide variety of materials including research, correspondence, articles, photos, manuscripts, various awards, and library equipment. Most items were owned or used by Clara Breed, however some items originated with family members. There are an additional 5 boxes containing dolls collected by Clara Breed that have not been inventoried or included in the finding aid. Four of the boxes are currently stored in Rare Books Storage, one box containing one doll and related materials in RCC. In 2024 the collection was reviewed for inventory and items from exhibits, displays, and programs inspired by Clara Breed were added as small subseries collections. These later boxes may continue to grow as programs like Rebellious Miss Breed are ongoing.
- Acquisition information:
- Unknown
- Processing information:
-
2006 by Elizabeth Jensen, 2024 by Ethne Dietz
Access and use
- Restrictions:
-
Collection is open for research.
- Terms of access:
-
San Diego Public Library can only claim physical ownership of the collection. Users are responsible for satisfying any claims of the copyright holder. Permission to copy or publish any portion of San Diego Public Library's collection must be given by the San Diego Public Library.
- Preferred citation:
-
Clara E. Breed Collection. San Diego Public Library
- Location of this collection:
-
330 Park Blvd.San Diego, CA 92101, US
- Contact:
- (619) 238-6668