Wizard of Oz
This beautifully illustrated, first edition, of L. Frank Baum's classic children's novel, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, was published in September 1900, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz has become among America's best-loved, homegrown fairytale. It is one of the most-read children's books of all time. The Oz story has become a classic because it blends elements of traditional magic, such as witches, with ones from early twentieth-century American reality, such as a Kansas cyclone and a scarecrow. And, despite its many particularly American attributes, including a wizard from Omaha, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz has universal appeal, demonstrated by numerous non-American translations and dramatizations.
For many years the book was considered controversial and was banned from the shelves of various libraries across the country because some felt it did not qualify as important juvenile literature. It has been criticized for its simple language and themes. Despite criticism the book has become a classic. The reason might well be summed up by MGM studios, makers of the 1939 movie version of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, which said: "Time has been powerless to put its kindly philosophy out of fashion."
The Clarke Historical Library was founded in 1954 through a gift from Dr. Norman E. Clarke, Sr. to his alma mater. Dr. Clarke was a book collector of unusual insight and breadth. His collection was created, in his own words, to "portray the lives, the thoughts, and the culture of the pioneer people to whom we owe so much."