Pepperdine Libraries Special Collections and University Archives exists to collect, organize, preserve, and make available materials with enduring historic value that are used by students, faculty, staff, scholars, and the public, for purposes of research, teaching, administrative activities, and enjoyment of cultural heritage. In addition to collections that relate to University Archives, the Malibu Historical Collection, and the Churches of Christ Heritage Center, the department collects archival materials related to the greater Los Angeles and Southern California Region, the papers of several political figures, many of whom either attended or were employed by Pepperdine, and materials from other topics that enhance or provide context for the current collections, support the curriculum, or are useful for instruction in primary source research.

Read our Special Collections Guide to learn more about primary source and archival collections at Pepperdine University.

Bob Woodson Digital Collection

Robert L. "Bob" Woodson Sr. is a prominent American civil rights activist, community development leader, and author who founded the Woodson Center (originally the National Center for Neighborhood Enterprise) in 1981, which champions grassroots, community-based solutions to poverty and other social issues. The digital collection includes recordings of lectures, news reports, and conferences organized by or featuring Bob Woodson and the Woodson Center. 

Marion Thompson Wright Collection

Marion Thompson Wright was a leading scholar in African American education and sociology. She earned her B.A. in Sociology in 1927 and M.A. in history and education in 1928 from Howard University. Wright became the first African American to receive a doctorate from Teacher College, Columbia University in 1940, with her dissertation titled, "The Education of Negroes in New Jersey", which was subsequently published in 1941. Wright's research was also used in the case of Brown vs. Board of Education in the fight to desegregate schools. The Marion Thompson Wright Papers contain materials related to several areas of Wright's life.

Michael J. Marlatt Collection of Documents from Colonial America

These Colonial-era documents, from the collection of Pepperdine alumnus and attorney Michael J. Marlatt, span from 1715 to 1781 and represent the cultural, philosophical, and political atmosphere leading up to and during the Revolutionary War.

Michael Reagan Show

The Michael Reagan Show was a radio show hosted by Michael Reagan, Republican commentator and son of former United States President Ronald Reagan. The show was broadcasted by Premiere Networks in the early 2000's and addressed contemporary national issues. 

Pat Boone Collection

This collection features photographs and ephemera from the life and career of Pat Boone, a musician and performer who has sold 45 million records worldwide, has 13 gold singles, two gold albums and a platinum album.