It all started when Branch Librarian Joyce Gunn successfully competed for the only California appearance of the Smithsonian Institute’s first traveling jazz exhibit, “Beyond Category: The Musical Genius of Duke Ellington.” The exhibit was on display at San Ramon Library from October 17 through November 28, 1996. During those six weeks, the Library and the San Ramon Library Foundation presented 31 public jazz programs and provided educational assemblies in each of the local schools.

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Featured were such Ellington alumni as Kenny Burrell and Bill Berry, and scholars and writers including Philip Elwood of the San Francisco Chronicle and John Hasse of The Smithsonian.  An initial collection of over 300 CDs was donated by performing artists and recording companies. A record turnout provided funds for the acquisition of additional CDs, videos, books, and sheet music for the Jazz Collection.

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San Ramon Library’s collection of Jazz materials keeps growing.  Since its inception, through donations the Main Library has amassed an enviable Jazz Collection - one of the largest in the U.S. accessible to the public on loan.  There are over 1200 CDs (including the entire catalog of Concord Records), 125 videos, 220 books, and jazz magazines available for checkout.   So, pop in to peruse the Collection and then play your favorite 45 rpm record for free on our working vintage Wurlitzer jukebox!