This collection contains oral history interviews of lesbians discussing their lives and includes discussions regarding childhood, careers, coming out, lesbian relationships, family, hobbies, education, and other topics. Material in this collection is available to view at: Lesbians and Their Careers (B-E Collection) 

The B-E collection was started by Dianne Barrett, R.N. and floral designer; and her spouse, Margaret Elfering, an orthopedic surgeon. Both retired, Barrett and Elfering decided to start the collection as a way to record the stories and legacies of lesbians and their careers. The collection name is shorthand for their last names (Barrett-Elfering) but is also derived from the verb "be" as defined as "to exist" or "to occur or take place" as a "means of bearing witness to the stories of lesbians of different generations, from different walks of life". The mission of this collection as stated by the creators is "to dignify the accomplishments, pride, and effort lesbians put forth in their careers on their journey in their life. Many of us had the "don't talk" experience...now we are talking".

128 digital items (127 .mp4 video files; 1 pdf)

All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the Director of Archives and Special Collections. Permission for publication is given on behalf of Special Collections as the owner of the physical materials and not intended to include or imply permission of the copyright holder, which must also be obtained.

There are no access restrictions on this collection.