Freedom Libraries: The Untold Story of Libraries for African Americans in the South by Mike Selby

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Freedom Libraries: The Untold Story of Libraries for African Americans in the South by Mike Selby



So many stories go untold. So many truths remain hidden. Certain areas of history that you weren’t even aware of become visible and it has the ability to shift the world as you see it. I considered myself well read in regards to the events of Freedom Summer and the works of Civil Rights activist that summer of 1964. Not a scholar or researcher but I had done my due diligence to be knowledgeable of a history, that as a Black woman, has affected my life in so many profound ways. But I have never heard of the Freedom Libraries and their significance to Freedom Summer until I came across this book. Now a whole new chapter of the racial injustices Black people have suffered in this country has been opened to me and I won’t lie, I was distraught while reading this. I love reading and always have. The thought of not being allowed to access books is terrifying and heartbreaking to me. To read of the lengths people went to prohibit Black people from having access to books is so frustrating. But right on par with the history of the United States

Selby did an excellent job providing information on the history of Freedom Libraries. It’s obvious that this book was thoroughly researched with a goal of providing as much information as possible about not only the existence of the libraries but those who worked tirelessly to run them. These Freedom Libraries became community hubs, many turning into Head Start programs. They became places for Black people to learn, not only how to read but about their history. Freedom Libraries stressed having books written by Black people so readers could see themselves reflected on the page. They reached out to young and old alike. And they were seen as a threat. Freedom Libraries were attacked, bombed and mobbed but people kept coming because in a time where Black people weren’t allowed to go into white libraries, they became a place of hope.

I’m so grateful for this book. It is extremely well written, concise and thorough. You can tell this book was handled with care and meant to respect and honor those who fought so hard to bring access to books to everyone. Highly recommending this book. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

Thank you Netgalley for this book in exchange for an honest review.


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