Index for Minnie Thomas Collection. Minnie Thomas began collecting autographed books and pamphlets in 1934 after obtaining the signatures of the Lord and Lady Bledisloe. By the time of her death in 1974, she had collected more than 1500 signed items from noteworthy people, including books, playbills, industrial leaflets and pamphlets. This archive can be accessed by visiting Research and Archives, Palmerston North City Library