Ruth Bolden facts for kids

Ruth Bolden (1910–2004) was an important person who helped start libraries and worked for civil rights. She was born in 1910 and passed away in 2004. She helped create the Weaver-Bolden Branch Library in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. This library is now named after her and Dr. George Weaver. It is part of the Tuscaloosa Public Library system.

Early Life and Education

Ruth Bolden was born in Bibb County, Alabama, in 1910. She worked hard to pay for her education. She graduated from Stillman College in 1952. Later, she earned a special degree in library science from Atlanta University. This degree helped her learn how to run libraries.

Building Libraries for Everyone

Ruth Bolden believed that everyone should have access to books. In 1948, she got money from the county to start a library. This first library was in a community center in West Tuscaloosa.

She worked hard to get more support. In 1961, she found money to build a brand new library building. She became the very first librarian there. Ruth Bolden asked for the library to be named after Dr. George Augustus Weaver. He was an important Black citizen who let young people use his own private library. In 1991, the library was renamed the Weaver-Bolden branch to also honor Ruth Bolden.

Working for Civil Rights

Ruth Bolden was a follower of T.Y. Rogers, a leader in the local Civil Rights Movement. She was a member of the Tuscaloosa Citizens Action Committee. This group helped Black people register to vote. Registering to vote was a very important step for equal rights.

On June 9, 1964, Ruth Bolden was at the First African Baptist Church. People were planning a civil rights march there. On that day, local authorities used tear gas at the church. Many people remember this day as "Bloody Tuesday."

Awards and Special Recognitions

Ruth Bolden received many honors and was part of several important groups. She was a member of the First African Baptist Church. She also belonged to the League of Women Voters. She was appointed to the Bryce Human Rights Committee by a Federal Court.

Ruth Bolden was also on the Tuscaloosa County Jury Commission. She was the president of the Stillman College National Alumni Association. She was even named Alabama Black Woman of the Year. Her favorite saying was, "Readers are leaders." Ruth Bolden passed away on May 12, 2004. She is buried in Cedar Oak Memorial Park in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.