Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library

Written by Carole Boston Weatherford

Illustrated by Eric Velasquez

Wow! What an inspiring, eye-opening book about the life of bibliophile, Arturo Schomburg! As a child in Puerto Rico he questioned why “Africa’s sons and daughters had no history, no heroes worth noting.” Determined to discover that there was more to Black history than slavery, Arturo began searching. In fact, it became his life’s quest! He studied and learned all he could and was often lost for hours in books!

As an adult, he searched for and purchased books, papers and artwork that told the many stories of amazing Blacks whose contributions and accomplishments had gone virtually unnoticed. Benjamin Banneker. Phillis Wheatley. Frederick Douglass. Toussant Louverture. David Walker. Nat Turner. Paul Cuffee. Marcus Garvey. Chevalier de Saint-Georges. Arturo’s insatiable curiosity continued and his book collection grew until it began to overtake his home. His collection was moved to the 135th Street branch of the New York Public Library.

I was so impressed with this book and Stromburg’s dedication to unearthing thee truth. His 5th grade teacher was wrong! Africa’s sons and daughter had a rich history to share and is filled with many noteborthy heroes! Read more >>

Buy the Book: Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library

Originally posted on February 23, 2021.