Working as a Library Assistant has been a great opportunity for me to discover what I want to do as my career in the future. The people that I’ve met and worked with have given me so much insight about the resources that are available to me and advice on the things that I am unsure about. Although I will miss working in the library and being surrounded by books, I am excited to step into my role as the AACC gallery assistant and explore the opportunities it has to offer. 

Check out these books that have a wide range of topics that include themes and lessons that I think everyone should read and learn about. 

You can check them out in person or request them through the library catalog by clicking the call number button!

My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending our Hearts and Bodies by Resmaa Menakem

This book explores different aspects of generational trauma passed down through African- American families and how that trauma is stored in black bodies as well as other non-black bodies. He also offers methods of healing and release throughout the chapters. This book offers understanding to black and non-black people about racial trauma and how it is not just a system that affects people mentally but physically as well.

Afrofuturism: The World of Black Sci-Fi and Fantasy Culture by Ytasha L. Womack

This book offers a description of the origin of Afrofuturism and how it developed and shown in black communities through musicians like George Clinton, authors like Octavia Butler, black scholars like W.E.B DuBois and others. It encourages the creation of culture, diversity, and the prioritization of black joy.

“Although I will miss working in the library and being surrounded by books, I am excited to step into my role as the AACC gallery assistant” – K’Mya Williamson

All about Love : New Visions by bell hooks

Brings new perspective to the representation of love in a society that views it as unimportant. This book allows the reader to reflect on love shown externally from others and internally from themselves.

Butch Queens Up in Pumps : Gender, Performance, and Ballroom Culture in Detroit by Marlon M. Bailey

I chose this book because I think that Black LGBTQ+ culture is often not acknowledged as a significant contributor to pop culture and the things we say and do everyday. Learning about its origin and the different things it includes gives credit where credit is due to Black LGBTQ people. 

Where Sleeping Girls Lie by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé

I chose this book because I love mystery books with a persistent main character that acts as the” lead detective” in a case. This book gives representation to the traumatic experiences of people that never received justice or acknowledgement.

The Prey of Gods by Nicky Drayden

I thought this book was interesting given the current rise of technological innovation in modern society. It includes technology while also incorporating fantasy aspects of heroic main characters who will save the day.

Black Cake : a novel by Charmaine Wilkerson

I chose this book because I love the focus on Eleanor’s story and how she navigated life and made tough decisions. I think this book gives young adults a different perspective on life through their parents’ eyes.

The Politics of Black Women’s Hair by Althea Prince

Evaluates the policing of black hair through societal beauty standards with conversations between black women about the significance of their hair and memories it holds.

Too Heavy a Yoke : Black Women and the Burden of Strength by Chanequa Walker-Barnes

Evaluates one of the many titles of black women and the negative effects it can have on the way they are treated and how they view themselves. I chose this book because I was and still am surrounded by black women who sometimes forget that being “strong” is not their most important character trait.