Frequently Asked Questions

How can I contribute my photographs to the Hollywood Archives?

The Records and Archives Division welcomes either the donation or loan of your photographs of local people, buildings, and events. It is not necessary to give your family photographs to the Archives—with your permission, we will make arrangements to copy the photos and return the originals to you.

My family pictures are from the 1950s and 1960s, not like the very early ones you have here. Are they still important?

Absolutely! Age is not the only factor in deciding whether a document or photograph is archival. We take a long-term approach to collecting. After all, a photograph taken in the 1950s, 60s, or later will in another 75 or 80 years help document what Hollywood looked like a century earlier. Remember, in 1925 the photographs that we now consider priceless artifacts were brand new!

Is the City looking for any particular photographs?

While we welcome almost any photo that will help document Hollywood’s people and places, we are especially looking to document under-represented groups who have contributed to the quality of life in our City. We would be especially grateful to obtain photos of African-American and Hispanic families, homes, businesses, social organizations, and religious institutions.

What about other kinds of items?

We are also looking for donations of all types of materials that document the history of Hollywood – postcards, advertising, old newspapers and magazines, newsletters, brochures, pamphlets, programs, motion pictures and videos, reports, maps, posters, souvenirs; any items relating to tourism, sports, recreational and cultural activities, homes, businesses, public buildings, local government, religion, neighborhoods, etc. You can check our online database to see if we already have it, and call (954) 921-3545 to arrange pickup or delivery.