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African American Literature (General Collections)

The Penn Libraries collects contemporary works by African-American authors in all formats and genres, including genre fiction (science fiction, fantasy, detective novels, thrillers, etc.), novels, play scripts, comic books and graphic novels. Musical recordings, television shows, feature films, and documentaries by and featuring African Americans are also well represented.

The first page of the comic book biography of Mabel K. Staupers, published in Negro Heroes, no. 2 (summer issue), 1948

Collection Overview

The library has a strong collection of contemporary fiction, including works such as N.K. Jemisin's multiple award winning Broken Earth Trilogy.  

Cover of The Stone Sky by N.K. Jemisin

Aside from major hits, the Library also collects less known works such as Claudia Rankine's one-act play The White Card.

Cover of The White Card by Claudia Rankine

 

Resources Described in Library Catalog

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Staff Information

Resources for Staff Committees