The Autograph Book of L.A.: Improvements on the Page of the City

Beginning in 1906 the Autograph Collection of the Los Angeles Public Library was started by then City Librarian, Charles Lummis when he solicited hundreds of influential people from around the country to "improve" a page of blank stationery for a new permanent collection. In 2018, City Librarian John F. Szabo and curator Josh Kun revived this collection with a contemporary twist, inviting the general public to contribute their stories and unique artwork. The autographs, illustrations, drawings, letters, and more collected here asks us to think about the nature of celebrity, who gets to be remembered, and how we leave our mark on the city. 

A display of the collection will be at the Los Angeles Central Library, first floor galleries from 26 September 2019 - 19 January 2020.