Library of Congress Acquires 'Wizard of Oz' Materials, Including Rare Lyric Sketch

What's Happening?

The Library of Congress has acquired a collection of rare music and lyric sketches from composer Harold Arlen and lyricist E.Y. 'Yip' Harburg, who collaborated on the song score for the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz. This collection includes 35 manuscript items, featuring the only known lyric sketch for 'Over the Rainbow,' a song that has become timeless and universal. The acquisition also includes draft song lists and correspondence from the film's director, Mervyn Leroy. The collection is part of the Harold Arlen Collection, which was donated by Arlen's sister-in-law, Rita Arlen, beginning in 2022. The Library of Congress plans to display these materials in the Great Hall of the Thomas Jefferson Building from October 23, 2025, through January 7, 2026.

Why It's Important?

The acquisition of these materials by the Library of Congress is significant as it preserves the legacy of one of the most iconic films in American history. 'Over the Rainbow' is a cultural touchstone, having won an Oscar for best original song and being inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and the National Recording Registry. The preservation of these materials ensures that future generations can access and study the creative process behind these timeless songs. This acquisition also highlights the importance of preserving cultural artifacts that have shaped American culture and music.

What's Next?

The Library of Congress will feature a display of these materials starting in October 2025, allowing the public to view the original music and lyric manuscripts from The Wizard of Oz. This display will provide an opportunity for scholars, historians, and the general public to engage with the creative history of the film. The Library's ongoing efforts to expand its collection of songwriter manuscripts will continue to enrich its offerings and provide valuable resources for research and education.