Using the Collection
This collection includes both digitized and physical items. Digitized items can be accessed through the UCLA Library Digital Collections platform. Physical items are available for research and are located in our off-site storage facility (Southern Regional Library Facility). Request physical items using the "Special Collections Request" links in the UC Library Search catalog record. View our video tutorial or contact Library Special Collections for more help on how to request items.
The finding aid with full collection details can be viewed in the Online Archive of California (OAC).
More Information
About the Collection
UCLA Library is proud to highlight historic materials from the records of Connexxus/Centro de Mujeres, one of the first non-profit organizations in Los Angeles to directly serve and support the local lesbian community when it opened in 1985.
Founders Del Martinez and Lauren Jardine envisioned a space in which lesbians could thrive professionally, personally, and socially. Connexxus had its own library, coffee house and other spaces for meetings, social events and counseling services, providing a much needed public space for lesbians in L.A. At its peak, the program had multiple locations including Connexxus East, which specifically outreached to Latina lesbians in East L.A. Connexxus also co-sponsored the first Latina Lesbian Mental Health Conference in 1986. In 1987 Connexxus took over the management of the West Coast Lesbian Collection, which was moved from Oakland and was renamed the June Mazer Lesbian Archive(opens in a new tab).
Connexxus operated throughout the 80’s and played a major role in cultivating an environment that enabled the emergence of many specialized organizations and businesses serving Los Angeles’ dynamic lesbian population. Connexxus closed its doors in 1990.
Hero image: Founding Celebration II: Attendees on the dance floor(opens in a new tab)
Related Collections and Resources
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UCLA June Mazer Lesbian Archive
Archive dedicated to collecting, protecting and preserving lesbian and feminist history and culture - default
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) Studies Research Guide
Your guide to LGBTQ Studies research at UCLA: Find articles, books, primary sources and more. - default
Los Angeles History and Culture in Library Special Collections
Library Special Collections holdings include a wide range of materials related to the history of the Los Angeles area and its communities.