Academic Library Support for Black Studies Programs: A Plea to Black Studies Faculty and Administrators

Abstract

Students enrolled in Black Studies courses, like all other students, must know how to complete library-related assignments systematically; conduct research for term papers; and investigate research problems by drawing upon the plethora of bibliographies, biographical sources, periodical indexes, and other reference tools that are available. In this article, the writer (1) discusses some of the primary issues related to library support for Black Studies courses and programs, (2) recommends sources for Black Studies faculty to incorporate into their course syllabi, and (3) suggests some practical strategies for institutionalizing library support for Black Studies programs. It must be noted that some Black Studies programs and academic libraries have established separate libraries or collections to support the needs of their students and faculty. However, most institutions have neither the financial resources nor the need to establish separate collections.1 It should also be mentioned that some academic librarians feel that a separate library or collection exonerates them from the responsibility for providing quality service, or any service, to Black Studies programs. There are two primary issues regarding library support for Black