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Cecily Marcus
University of Minnesota Libraries
612-624-8812

Givens Collections of African American Literature

Download the Annotated Bibliophilia by Davu Seru (PDF)

The Archie Givens, Sr., Collection of African American Literature of the University of Minnesota Libraries honors Black History Month with an exhibit from February 1 to 26 in the Hennepin Gallery.

Many of the books on exhibit are rare first editions, some of which have been out of print for many years, and some have also been signed, inscribed, and/or illustrated by the authors. Others include striking covers designed by iconic artists. In this digital age, these books as objects take on new meaning, often carrying new stories told by the wear and tear from a journey across time and through many hands.

The Givens Collection also contains epistolary exchanges, manuscripts, ephemera, music and artworks that represent the heroic accomplishments of lay preservationists who have collected and cared for works as readers and bibliophiles, as well as an interest in documenting African American cultural life as a matter of public good.

The collection of over 8,000 books includes some of the most important literary achievements by African Americans dating back to 1773.

More information about the Givens Collection.

Gallery Hours and Location
The Hennepin Gallery is free and open to the public Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Hennepin County Government Center, A Level, 300. S. Sixth St., Minneapolis. The exhibit is sponsored by Hennepin County Administration. The Gallery is a project of Hennepin County Public Affairs.

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