This display celebrates the origins of African American literature through books, newspapers, and other printed materials in the Free Library’s collection. In spite of slavery, prohibitions on learning to read, and countless other barriers, Black people have been participants in the book trades since our arrival in the Americas.

Some were writers, but many more were printers, typesetters, mechanics, bookbinders, booksellers, entrepreneurs, and collectors. Often, individuals played several of these roles throughout their careers. While the details of many of these Black bookmakers’ lives may be lost to us, by looking at the books themselves, we can see traces of their work.

Visit the exhibit in the 2nd floor hallway at Parkway Central Library any time during our open hours, January 8th - February 29th, 2024.

If this topic interests you, don't miss our upcoming program: Black Bookmakers with Ramon Townsend on Thursday, February 22nd!

For a list of books in the display and some recommendations for further reading, take a look at our community booklist here.