The Herrera Collection contain materials associated with the life and trial of Leonel Herrera, as well as materials included in the book Last Words from Death Row: The Walls Unit, written by Leonel Herrera's sister, Norma Herrera Ellis.
This collection documents the death penalty abolitionist work of Marie McFadden Deans. A smaller amount of personal materials, such as Deans' poetry and writing, also is included.
The Center was formed in 1981 by an alliance of non-profit activist organizations in order to provide a central location, office space, and basic services for activist groups in Albany, New York.