The historical achievements and life experiences of African Americans in Hillsborough County have been documented in several publications and white papers, but remain relatively unknown to the general public. Though gaps exist in many of these historical reports, the knowledge still lives in the memories of the senior community and is at risk of being lost if not recorded and preserved. The local African American history collection at the Saunders Library addresses both of these issues through its oral history recordings, preserved materials and publications, and a cohesive, interactive display that introduces the community’s rich heritage and invites exploration.

The newly rebuilt Saunders Library preserves and presents its community’s African American history through easily accessible, interactive collections. Features of the new library design include:

• Touch screen displays covering such local history topics as civil rights, occupations, housing, athletics, and entertainment
• An interactive map of the historic Central Avenue district with photos and descriptions of its many businesses, churches, and schools
• Studio space for recording and editing oral histories
• An African American History & Genealogy Library with materials specific to local history and genealogy research
• Public art depicting local civil rights leaders and the black experience in Hillsborough County

The new Saunders Library serves as a source for local history knowledge, a destination point for school field trips, and a stimulus for community projects. Its displays have increased awareness of the historic Burgert Brothers photographic collection held by the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library and brought new attention to the several reports and papers written on the topic of African Americans in Hillsborough County. Its collections and design have cultivated partnerships with the Tampa Bay History Center, the City of Tampa Archives, and the University of South Florida Special Collections, extending the network of resources available to the community.