Collections on Black Experiences

The BMRC gathers information about archival collections held by member organizations that document African American and African diasporic culture, history, and politics, with a specific focus on materials relating to Chicago. The searchable database includes records about collections that were processed or surveyed through the BMRC's Survey Initiative and Color Curtain Processing Project programs, as well as finding aids contributed from our members.

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Chicago Public Library, Cleveland Hall Branch - Opening Day on January 18, 1932 - Vivian Harsh, center.

Source: Vivian G. Harsh Research Collection, George Cleveland Hall Branch Archives, Photo 084.

Use the search box above to investigate the many topics, people, and activities documented in collections located around Chicago in the repositories of the BMRC member organizations.

Check out the information on member organizations page to find out how best to contact each BMRC member organization, and how you may access their collections. Materials available to the public include: oral history, correspondence, photographs, writings, audio and video and many other types.

For more resources, take a look at our growing list of other topic-based, genre-specific, or place-centered collections information.