| The Center is the only institution in North America devoted solely to the life, works, and accomplishments of Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827). In 1983, Ira F. Brilliant donated his collection of about 80 first editions to San Jose State University to establish the library and archives of the Beethoven Center. Now containing the largest collection of Beethoven materials in the western hemisphere, the Center's rare collections include manuscripts, historical keyboards, scores and books, arts objects and prints, and regalia such as the Guevara Lock of Beethoven's Hair. The library collections do not circulate but many materials are available for browsing and use in the public reading room, including books, scores, sound recordings, and videos. |