In keeping with our mission to instill the love of reading and foster the pursuit of knowledge, these resources are provided to spark conversation, inspire critical thinking and self-reflection, and aid in the continuing education of our community on the subjects of race, equality, and social justice.

The following is a select guide to both print and electronic resources found in the Wake County Public Libraries on the African American experience. If you have trouble finding information, please see a staff member. We are here to help!

June 19 marks the day when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people be freed. The troops’ arrival came a full two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.

In keeping with our mission to instill the love of reading and foster the pursuit of knowledge, these resources are provided to inspire critical thinking and aid in the continuing education of our community on the subjects of identity, equality, and social justice.