MLA's 100th anniversary presents a remarkable opportunity to highlight the achievements and contributions of Black librarians within and beyond Maryland. Join leaders from the Black Caucus of the Maryland Library Association (BCMLA) and the Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA) for a lively discussion on Black/African American librarian contributions and experiences. From James Partridge to Dr. Carla Hayden and countless others, the Mid-Atlantic region represents the richness of Black library leadership.
This program will enlighten participants on the role of African Americans and their impact on all aspects of the Chesapeake. Designated as a “Local Legacies Project” by the LOC, Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation (BOCF), founded by Vincent Leggett, documents, brings to light, and preserves the significant contributions of African Americans in the maritime and seafood-related industries. The foundation maintains a collection of records, artifacts, genealogies, books, and more than 40,000 photographs representing 200 years of African American life and work along the Chesapeake. BOCF is collaborating with the Maryland State Archives, Johns Hopkins University, the Enoch Pratt Free Library, and Digital Maryland to inventory, catalog, and digitize the entirety of the collection, thus making it accessible to all.