Celebrating Miriam Matthews: The Life and Legacy of the First Black Librarian
The Hyde Park branch of the Los Angeles Public Library will celebrate the bicentennial ofsetMinimumSize 0 px”>
This Wednesday, November 11, designates the 20th anniversary of the building’s opening, the Los Angeles Public Library’s Hyde Park Miriam Matthews Branch will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the building’s opening, as well as the life and legacy of its namesake. Matthews was the first Black librarian the city embraced and a tireless advocate for the arts and against censorship.
Matthews, born in Los Angeles, spent her childhood southwest in the city, where she’d later become the second Black librarian and had never held a summer
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How did Miriam Matthews contribute to the advancement of Black people within California?
Host: Welcome back to the show. Today we’re joined by [Alex Reed Name], a local historian and author, to discuss the upcoming celebration of Miriam Matthews, the first Black librarian in California. [Alex Reed Name], thanks for joining us.
Alex Reed: It’s my pleasure to be here. Miriam Matthews was a truly remarkable woman, and her legacy deserves to be celebrated.
Host: Absolutely. Can you tell our viewers a bit about who Miriam Matthews was and why her life and work are so significant?
Alex Reed: Miriam Matthews broke barriers in a time when opportunities for Black people were scarce. In 1927, she became the first certified Black librarian in California. She dedicated her life to serving her community through the Los Angeles Public Library and was a fierce advocate for access to information and the arts. [[1](https://newsroom.ucla.edu/stories/ucla-library-miriam-matthews-californias-first-black-librarian)]
Host: That’s incredible. And now the Hyde Park branch of the library is named in her honour. What will be happening at the branch this Wednesday to commemorate her?
Alex Reed: This Wednesday marks the 20th anniversary of the branch’s opening, making it a double celebration. They’ll have exhibits showcasing Ms. Matthews’ life and career, as well as events highlighting the importance of libraries in our communities. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn more about this inspiring woman and her impact on Los Angeles.
