Grady Drake: The First Librarian at Junior College of Broward County (JCBC), 1960–2019 (bulk 1960–1989)
Collection context
Summary
- Creator:
- Drake, Grady
- Extent:
- 1 Linear Feet 1 box: 42 items: correspondence, reports, certificates, photographs, memorabilia
- Language:
- English
- Preferred citation:
Record Group 843, Grady Drake: The First Librarian at Broward County Junior College, Broward College Archives.
Background
- Scope and content:
This collection documents Grady Drake's professional and personal legacy at Broward College. It includes founding correspondence, contracts, awards, photographs, administrative records, annual reports, evaluations, community event memorabilia, retirement keepsakes, and personal notes exchanged with the first college president and other key figures. The files cover library development, faculty leadership, professional contributions, interaction with civic organizations, and Drake's ongoing relationships with colleagues from 1960 through his passing in 2019.
- Biographical / historical:
Grady Wynne Drake was appointed as the first librarian at the Junior College of Broward County in 1960. Beginning with a collection of approximately 1,500 books and serving roughly 400 students, Drake oversaw the development of the college library "from the ground up". Over nearly 30 years, he led its rapid expansion in resources, facilities, and services, guiding the library through the college's transformation into Broward College. Drake's influence on policies, staff training, community engagement, and academic support shaped the reputation and continuing growth of Broward College's library services. He remained active in professional and civic organizations until his retirement in 1989, and continued to be recognized well past his official tenure for his vision, service, and dedication to faculty, staff, and students.
- Arrangement:
Materials are arranged chronologically and by subject, with folders/items grouped for library history, professional activities, college administration, staff and faculty records, personal memorabilia, and retirement materials.
- Rules or conventions:
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Access and use
- Restrictions:
Open for research. Certain materials may have restrictions due to fragility or privacy.
- Terms of access:
Responsibility for securing copyright permission rests with the researcher. Reproduction is subject to material condition and institutional policy.
- Preferred citation:
Record Group 843, Grady Drake: The First Librarian at Broward County Junior College, Broward College Archives.
- Location of this collection:
-
3501 Davie RoadDavieFL33314USA
