The History of Public Library Access for African Americans in the South: Or, Leaving Behind the Plow

“This study should be of…interest to researchers and students of library science in the United States and African American history in the South since the Civil War.” ―The Journal of African American History

“This is an important book that chronicles major developments in library service to African Americans within the larger context of African American history.” ―Information & Culture

“David M. Battles proved a welcome and needed examination of the integration of the public library in the South, one of our most prominent but forgotten institutions. Filled with interesting tidbits and clear descriptions, Battles’s book marks a distinctive addition to the history of American segregation and integration.” ―North Carolina Historical Review