Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

Arturo Alfonso Schomburg, a black Puerto Rican, set himself to accumulating materials about blacks in America, and his massive collection—one of the largest collections of African-American materials in the world—is housed and preserved at this research branch of the New York Public Library in the heart of Harlem. The Exhibition Hall, the Latimer/Edison Gallery, and the Reading Room host changing exhibits related to black culture, such as “African Americans and American Politics,” “Obama: The Historic Campaign and Victory in Photos,” and a wonderful online exhibition, "In Motion: The African-American Migration Experience” (www.inmotionaame.org). A rich calendar of talks and performing-arts events is also part of the program. Make an appointment for a guided tour so you can see the 1930s murals by Harlem Renaissance artist Aaron Douglas; it’ll be worth your while. Academics and others interested in a more complete look at the center’s holdings can preview what’s available online. Call to inquire about current exhibitions and information on tours and public programs. Note: Poet Maya Angelou announced recently that the Center will be the recipient of all her papers.

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