Creating Access

First Honor Students, Unknown Photographer, 1968, Silver Gelatin. Courtesy of Southern University at Shreveport Library (LA).

About

A joint project from the HBCU Library Alliance and CLIR that will envision ways that all HBCU Library Alliance member institutions might work together to preserve, describe, and digitize the unique collections they steward.

This project will enable the discovery of previously 'hidden' primary resources at HBCUs that will enrich and broaden the existing body of knowledge about the African American experience.

Sandra Phoenix, HBCU Library Alliance Executive Director

The funding for this project could not have come at a better time. Our HBCU libraries serve as the keepers of some of the most unique materials which tell the stories of the history of the African American experience in our country. Due to the racial and social unrest of this year, it is even more critical to preserve these collections and find ways to increase access. The content and depth of these collections will create limitless opportunities for us to learn from the events of the past and prepare for a better future.

Monika Rhue, former HBCU Library Alliance Board Chair

Creating access to the archives of HBCU libraries is both timely and urgent. Making collections that center Black lives and histories widely available to all will enable us to fill gaps in both personal and public histories.

Dr. Charles Henry, CLIR President

Latest News

Faculty, Maryland Normal and Industrial School at Bowie

HBCU Library Alliance and CLIR Receive Grant to Study Feasibility for Large-Scale Survey of HBCU Archives

November 20, 2020— The HBCU Library Alliance and the Council on Library and Information Resources (CLIR) have received a $75,000 planning grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation for a project title...

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Faculty, Maryland Normal and Industrial School at Bowie

Project Partners Seek Focus Group Facilitator and Interviewer for Study on Creating Access to HBCU Archives

December 4, 2020— The HBCU Library Alliance and CLIR seek proposals for assistance in a study to identify common barriers and shared visions for creating access to historic collections held by librari...

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Faculty, Maryland Normal and Industrial School at Bowie

Announcing the Appointment of Project Researchers

March 11, 2021— The HBCU Library Alliance and the Council on Library and Information Resources (CLIR) are pleased to introduce three highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants/researchers who will l...

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