About Sherman Library
Sherman Library is a historical research library specializing in the history of the Pacific Southwest – including southern California, Arizona, northern Mexico and adjoining areas. The Library’s collections document the development of the region through books, archival collections, photographs, maps, and newspapers.
Sherman Library’s book collection encompasses more than 15,000 volumes, including a large collection of California city directories.
Sherman Library is also home to a collection of California Impressionist art, including works by William Wendt, Edgar Payne, Clarence Hinkle and Anna Hills.
Collections
Photograph Collections – Sherman Library has an extensive photograph collection totaling more than 30,000 items. The collections has particular strengths in the history of Newport Beach, Los Angeles and Southern California maritime subjects. You can also watch a virtual talk about the photograph collection.
Archival Collections – Documents, photographs, maps and other unique items.
City Directory Collections – City directories, street address directories and telephone books.
- City Directory Search Request (fee based)
Contact Sherman Library
Open
Tuesday – Thursday
11:00 am – 3:30 pm
Archival research by appointment
Monday – Thursday
9:00 am – 3:30 pm
949-673-1880 or [email protected]
Jill Thrasher, Library Director
Scholarships
Maren Davis Memorial Scholarship – Support to a college student with an interest in the study of librarianship, archives, and/or the history of Southern California.
Policies
- Access Policy for archival collections, including documents, photographs, maps and other unique items.
- Visual Materials Use Policy
- Collections Development Policy