Carson City Library obtains Wizard of Oz memorabilia

Thanks to a $350 memorial by "The Friends of Jan Jones," the Carson City Library has obtained 22 pieces of Oz memorabilia to add to its collection. All items go into circulation today.

"Jan Jones was a volunteer at the library in the 1980s and early '90s," said Sally Edwards, executive director of the Carson City Library.

"She worked in the bookstore and was a member of the Friends of the Carson City Library. After her unexpected passing, several of her friends made a collective donation of $350, and specified the money be used for obtaining 'Wizard of Oz' material. Libby Griffith, Paula Hawkins, Jan Penney-Araza and Charlotta Evans, all area residents, were just a few of those who made donations.

"Little did I know this was the 100th anniversary of the first publication of the book, which I feel has made the items more accessible. The Library of Congress is also having a special exhibition relating to Oz."

"The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," written by L. Frank Baum and first published May 17, 1900, has become one of America's best-loved homegrown fairytales. The story that has spawned stage plays and musicals, movies and television shows, toys and games.

The Library of Congress, in Washington, D.C., has supplemented its collections with costumes and other memorabilia borrowed from museums, other libraries and private collectors. The library is also celebrating its bicentennial this year.

Edwards said Jones was a member of the International Order of Oz, an organization of "Oz aficianados" and had an extensive collection of Oz material herself.

Edwards has purchased two copies of the first published Oz book in addition to 15 other volumes, plus four other books of Oz stories written for smaller children. All books contain illustrations by John R. Neill, with the exception of the first, which was illustrated by W.W. Denslow.

Also bought with the funds were copies of the movie and audio tapes for children.

"This is one of the largest memorials the library has received," said Edwards. "We occasionally get $100 or sometimes $200, but it's fantastic that we have received $350. We were able to purchase the entire series."

Edwards has been corresponding with Jones' son Brian in Sonoma, Calif., and said though his mother volunteered at several several different libraries, Carson City was her favorite. Over the years she developed a strong tie to the library.