The Impact of Black Studies Programs on the Academic Library

Black studies is an educative program aimed toward eliminating the distortions and biases of traditional curricular programs. Though sometimes revolutionary, it strives to instill in black people a sense of identity, unity, and group dignity, and boldly refects the host of stan, dards traditionally dictated by white Americans. For the white student it offers an understanding of the black experience, and for all students it aspires to widen the channels of communication and broaden understanding among individuals of all races. The creation of these programs has variously affected the development of collections in academic libraries. It is doubtful that black studies programs will be effective agents of change until anxieties level off and more realistic approaches to the problem of developing academic libraries and their collections are formulated.