Visitors to Warren County Memorial Library can learn more about Green Books and “oasis spaces” in an exhibit that will be open through the end of January.
“Oasis Spaces: North Carolina Green Book Project, 1933-1966” is the title of the exhibit open now through Jan. 31 at the Warrenton library located at 119 S. Front St.
The exhibit is made possible through a partnership with the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources as part of the North Carolina African American Heritage Commission.
The exhibit reflects the commission’s research about “The Negro Motorist Green Book,” which identified business that in essence served as “oasis spaces” for African American travelers during the time of segregation. The book was both a travel guide and a tool of resistance designed to confront the realities of racial discrimination in the United States and beyond. It listed more than 300 North Carolina restaurants, hotels, tourist homes, nightclubs and beauty salons where African Americans would be welcomed.
“We are pleased to present this exhibit for the community to explore a part of history that has been overlooked,” said Library Director Christy Bondy.
The library has several programs planned that accompany the exhibit including film screenings, and a virtual visit with the author Calvin Ramsey.
The Green Book Project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
The Warren County Memorial Library is located at 119 S. Front St., Warrenton, NC. For more information about the Green Book project, visit www.wcmlibrary.org.
