This collection consists of administrative files, correspondence, publicity, outreach, publications, reports and photographs of the San Jose/South Bay chapters of the National Organization for Women. It is arranged into two series: Administrative Files, 1971-2007; and Outreach and Publicity, 1971-2005.

The National Organization for Women (NOW) was founded on June 30, 1966 during the "Third National Conference of Commissions on the Status of Women." It was founded by Betty Friedan and twenty seven other women. The organization swelled to 300 members by October 26, 1966, when NOW held its first conference, where the statement of purpose was adopted. During this conference the structure of the organization was created and Betty Friedan was elected president.

4 boxes 3.33 linear feet

Copyright has been assigned to the San José State University Library Special Collections & Archives. All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the Director of Special Collections. Permission for publication is given on behalf of the San José State University Library Special Collections & Archives as the owner of the physical items and is not intended to include or imply permission of the copyright holder, which must also be obtained by the reader.

The collection is open for research.