The Library of Congress has acquired an extensive collection of works by Stephen Sondheim, comprising approximately 5,000 items including manuscripts, notebooks, music, lyric drafts, and scrapbooks.

Sondheim, who passed away in 2021 at the age of 91, is celebrated for redefining American musical theater with iconic works such as 'Company', 'Follies', 'A Little Night Music', and 'Sweeney Todd'.

Mark Horowitz, a Senior Music Specialist and a long-time friend of Sondheim, played a pivotal role in arranging the donation of these papers, which Sondheim included in his will.

The acquisition process began over three decades ago, initiated by Sondheim's decision in 1992 after an emotional visit to the Library of Congress.

The collection narrowly escaped destruction in 1995 when a fire broke out in Sondheim's office, with many items surviving with scorch marks, an event Horowitz described as a 'miracle'.

The collection arrived at the Library of Congress in March 2025 and will be available to the public starting July 1, 2025, for in-person research.

This collection serves as a significant addition to the Library's performing arts archive, preserving Sondheim's legacy as a transformative figure in the arts.

Horowitz noted Sondheim's meticulous refinement of his work, emphasizing the detailed evolution of his lyrics over time.

Highlights of the collection include drafts of notable songs like 'I’m Still Here' from 'Follies' and unreleased lyrics for a reprise of 'Side by Side by Side' from 'Company'.

Among the unexpected discoveries in the collection is a song Sondheim wrote for a public TV contest in the 1970s, showcasing the breadth of his creative output.

The Library of Congress, established in 1800, is the largest library in the world and already houses collections from several other Broadway legends.

Sondheim's manuscripts for celebrated works, alongside lesser-known plays and screenplays, will join the works of other notable Broadway composers in the Library.