Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History |
|
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Type | Special library |
| Established | 1994 |
| Location | Atlanta, Georgia |
The Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History is a special library in Atlanta, Georgia. It is part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System. You can find it in Atlanta's historic Sweet Auburn neighborhood.
This library opened in 1994. It was the first library in the southeastern United States to focus on African American culture and history. It also studies other people of African descent. The library's collection was once kept in other libraries. It was known as the Samuel W. Williams Collection on Black America.
The library building is 50,000 square feet and has four stories. It is made of red brick and black granite. Inside, you'll find areas for research and study. There are also public sections with exhibits and reading rooms. The library's archives are stored in the center of the building.
Everyone is welcome to visit the library. If you want to look at the special archive collections, it's a good idea to make an appointment. In 2001, the library received a special Governor's Award for its work in the humanities.
Contents
What is the Library's History?
The main collection of this library started at the Auburn Branch of the Carnegie Library of Atlanta. This branch opened in 1921. It was Atlanta's first public library for African Americans.
How Did the Library Start?
Before 1921, African Americans in Atlanta could not use public library services. This was due to unfair laws at the time. The Carnegie Corporation offered to fund a library for the city's large Black population as early as 1908. The Auburn branch finally opened with these funds.
Many African American women librarians managed the Auburn branch. This was from 1921 until it closed in 1959. Two important librarians were Alice Dugged Cary and Annie L. McPheeters. Ms. McPheeters was very important in building the "Negro History Collection." This collection became the core of the current library.
When Did the Current Library Open?
The Auburn Avenue Research Library opened on May 14, 1994. It cost $10 million to build and had 50,000 square feet. It was the second public library in the United States to focus on Black history and culture.
Recent Changes to the Library
The library closed for about two years for a big renovation. It reopened in 2016. The renovation cost $20 million and was led by Perkins and Will. The library expanded to 106,500 square feet. In 2019, the library celebrated its 25th anniversary at its current location.
What Kind of Collections Does the Library Have?
The library has three main parts: Reference and Research, Archives, and Program & Outreach. Each part helps people learn about African American culture and history.
Reference and Research Division
This division has many books and materials. They help people study African American culture. They also cover the African diaspora, which means people of African descent living around the world.
Archives Division
The Archives division keeps important records. These records are about African American culture and history. Many of them focus on the Atlanta area. Some famous collections include the Andrew J Young Papers. It also holds records from the Atlanta Life Insurance Company. Another collection is from the National Conclave of Grady Graduate Nurses.
Program and Outreach Division
This division organizes public events. These events help share the library's collections with more people. They might include talks, workshops, or exhibits.
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