About AFAS

ACRL’s African-American Studies Librarians Section provides the resources—ideas, programs, discussion forums and networking opportunities—to support the development of African American Studies librarianship and resources in academic and research libraries.

AFAS has four goals:

  1. Promote African American Studies librarianship.

  2. Actively participate in the preservation of African American history and culture.

  3. Partner with African American Studies educators to promote the continued research and study of African American history and life.

  4. Collaborate with African American Studies scholars in the academy and in the African American community.
AFAS offers many opportunities for members to become involved in committee activity, program planning, and professional exchange related to African American Studies librarianship. AFAS meetings take place at each ALA Annual Conference and Midwinter Meeting. Those interested in the study of African American life and history as it intersects with librarianship are welcome to attend.



What do members of the African American Studies Librarians Section do?

  • Participate in AFAS committees whose objectives are promoting, supporting and fostering information services in the field.
  • Plan programs of interest to members and their constituents.
  • Network with librarians with similar interests. Maintain an online list of core resources in African American Studies.
  • Promote librarianship among African American Studies organizations.