The Library Foundation has invested $11,000 in the Austin Public Library's African-American collection as part of an ongoing commitment to racial equity and diversity. All of the nearly 500 new titles were purchased from local bookseller Black Pearl Books. Katrina Brooks, the owner of Black Pearl Books, helped curate the list of titles, which includes books by, about, and for African-Americans.
"The goal was to offer a selection of titles that any one individual can identify with, pique an interest, or be introduced to someone else’s story, " Brooks said. "There are so many ways to share the black experience! And it’s important that libraries house books that are representative of their constituents."
The list includes books for kids, young adults, and adults, with subjects ranging from fiction to memoirs, biographies, self-help, religion, cookbooks, and other nonfiction.
The Library Foundation’s Executive Director, Tim Staley, said, “The Library Foundation is thrilled to support the Austin Public Library’s effort to address the high demand for books about race, racism and the Black American experience, while also supporting a black-owned local business.”
“The Austin Public Library is such a wonderful resource,” says Brooks. “We are very grateful to be a part of this initiative and assist in identifying titles that help them grow their diverse selections.”
For more information about Black Pearl Books, please visit their website.
