About Us

About The Library

The African American Library at the Gregory School officially opened its doors on Saturday, November 14, 2009. The library is housed in the Edgar M. Gregory School, which served as the first public school for African Americans in Houston. As the first library of its kind in Houston and one of the few African American libraries in the country, the Gregory School serves as a resource to preserve, promote, and celebrate the rich history and culture of African Americans in Houston, the surrounding region, and the African Diaspora.

This historic building was reconditioned to serve as a repository for use by historians, researchers, and the general public. The African American Library at the Gregory School is the newest of three special collections operated by the Houston Public library. The library provides an incomparable variety of resources including reference books, rare books, archival materials, exhibits, artifacts, oral histories, and innovative programs. With community participation, this facility is a one-of-a-kind research and cultural center, providing valuable information to the Houston community and the entire world.

Read more about the History of the Gregory School and explore Timelines related to Freedmen's Town.