Our collection

The J. Lewis Crozer Library collection actively promotes diversity. Each collection in the Library has both a general section and an African American section. Furthermore, our librarians have been diligently adding titles for all ages in Spanish. The specialized collections promote literacy among our patrons and provide easy access to books for school projects and life-long learning.

milestones in history

June 3, 1943: The Zoot Suit Riots, which targeted young Mexican-American men, began in Los Angeles. Click here to learn more.

June 10, 1794: Richard Allen and others founded Bethel Church in Philadelphia. Click here to learn more.

June 17, 1775:  Peter Salem and other African American soldiers fought at Battle of Bunker Hill. Click here to learn more.

June 19, 1865:  News of the Emancipation Proclamation and freedom from slavery finally reached Galveston Bay, Texas, the westernmost edge of the Confederacy. Click here to learn more.

July 2, 1964:  President Johnson signs the Civil Rights Act, outlawing discrimination. Click here to read an article from the July 3, 1964 New York Times.

July 11-13, 1905:  Meeting held that began the Niagara Movement, which preceded the founding of NAACP.  Click here to learn more. Read W.E.B. DuBois’ speech to the attendees here.

July 2, 1839:  Revolt on the slave ship Amistad began.   Click here to read about the subsequent law case. 

July 17, 1862: Congress passed the Second Confiscation and Militia Act freeing enslaved people belonging to Confederate soldiers.  Click here to learn more about black soldiers who served in Union Army during the Civil War.

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