Pioneering librarian who dedicated her life to collecting and preserving African American historical materials, establishing a renowned research library and archive.
Mayme Agnew Clayton was a trailblazing librarian and founder of the Western States Black Research and Education Center (WSBREC), which housed the largest privately held collection of African American historical materials in the world. With over 3.5 million items, including rare books, documents, and memorabilia, the collection is a testament to Clayton's unwavering dedication to preserving African American history and culture.
Born on August 4, 1923, Clayton's fascination with knowledge and learning was evident from an early age. She pursued her passion for librarianship, earning a degree from the University of Southern California. Her professional journey began at the University of Southern California, followed by a stint at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she began building an African American collection.
Clayton's travels as an avid golfer took her to various corners of the world, but she wasn't just searching for the perfect swing – she was on the hunt for rare and out-of-print books. Her collecting adventure spanned 45 years, during which she single-handedly amassed over 30,000 volumes. The crown jewel of her collection is a signed copy of Phillis Wheatley's Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral (1773), acquired in 1973 for $600 and appraised at $30,000 in 2002.
The Mayme A. Clayton Library and Museum (MCLM) boasts an astonishing array of artifacts, including:
Mayme Agnew Clayton's remarkable legacy extends beyond her exceptional collection. She inspired a new generation of scholars, researchers, and enthusiasts to explore and appreciate African American history. The MCLM, now housed at West Los Angeles College, continues to serve as a vital resource for academic and cultural institutions worldwide.
Clayton's pioneering spirit and tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on the world of librarianship and cultural preservation. As we celebrate her life and achievements, we are reminded of the power of dedicated individuals to shape our understanding of the past and inform our collective future.
Mayme Agnew Clayton passed away on October 13, 2006, but her extraordinary contributions to African American cultural heritage continue to inspire and educate us. Her life's work serves as a testament to the boundless potential of human curiosity and the importance of preserving our collective history.
