Warren County Memorial Library Hosts Oasis Spaces: North Carolina Green Book Project

The Warren County Memorial Library will host the “Oasis Spaces: North Carolina Green Book Project, 1933-1966” exhibit through January 31st. The exhibit is made possible through a partnership with the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources as part of the North Carolina African American Heritage Commission.

The exhibit reflects the Heritage 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 over 300 North Carolina businesses including restaurants, hotels, tourist homes, nightclubs and beauty salons.

“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.

Oasis Spaces: North Carolina Green Book Project / Submitted photo

The library has several programs planned that accompany the exhibit including film screenings, and a virtual visit with 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.