qla @ Gerber/Hart Library and Archives

On Saturday, July 19, participants from the queer library alliance (qla) had an opportunity to visit the Gerber/Hart Library and Archives, which contains over 14,000 volumes, 800 periodical titles, and 100 archival collections featuring records of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals and related organizations from Chicago and around the Midwest.

We toured the facility and assisted with processing an incredible collection of photographs featuring the legendary drag queen Miss Tillie, the Dirty Old Lady of Chicago, and friends dating from the 1940s.

Melissa Funfsinn and Lucas McKeever in the Archives

Brianna Walker, Alice Logue, and Thaddeus Andracki processing photographs

Taylor Parks and Brianna Walker processing photographs

Molly Wayne processing photographs

Alice Logue and Rae-Anne Montague processing photographs

This extensive set of photos documenting an important facet of our history is a good example of the valuable resources Gerber/Hart strives to preserve.

If you are in Chicago, check out the collection at 6500 N Clark St. Also, consider making a donation to support the Library and Archives’ important work.