Here at the University of Dundee Library, we’re proud to support Black History Month and this year’s theme: “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.” 
It’s a chance to celebrate Black history, culture, and creativity — to learn from the past, recognise the present, and imagine a better future. 

Throughout October, we’re shining a spotlight on some brilliant Library resources, exhibitions, and events that explore Black identity, resilience, and pride. 

Explore stories of power, identity, and creativity 

Our Library collections are full of incredible voices and perspectives. Whether you’re working on a project, researching a topic, or simply curious to learn more, there’s plenty to discover. 

You can start by exploring our Black History: Power and Pride collection in Library Search. Here are just a few highlights to get you started: 

  • Beyond forty acres and a mule: African American landowning families since Reconstruction by Debra Ann Reid – This collection traces the history of landowning African American farmers from the end of the Civil War to today, highlighting key case studies of individuals and the factors influencing their ability to acquire and protect land. It spans a century and a half, from post-emancipation struggles to contemporary efforts for justice over historical discrimination. 
  • Country soul: making music and making race in the American South by Charles L. Hughes – Interviews and rare archives to reveal the lives of session musicians, producers, and songwriters at the heart of country and soul music, showing how the country-soul intersection reshaped ideas about music, race, labour, and the U.S. South. 
  • A range of films and documentaries celebrating Black voices in art, politics, and culture. 

You can find these and many more online or in print via Library Search. 

See what’s happening on campus and in the city 

There’s a fantastic programme of events and exhibitions across campus this month, many of which connect to our Library and Museum collections. 

  • Jamaican Journeys: Identity, Place and Conversations through Art – on display in the Lamb Gallery until 24 October, this exhibition explores Jamaican identity and heritage through contemporary art. 
  • Dundee & Empire – now redisplayed in Dundee Central Library, this poster exhibition looks at Dundee’s historical connections to empire and the transatlantic slave trade. 
  • Transatlantic Connections – Tuesday 7 October, 5.30pm, D’Arcy Thompson Lecture Theatre. Part of the University Founders Project, this event investigates Dundee’s historical links to slavery and colonialism. 
  • Breaking the Chains Walking Tour – Friday 10 October, 2.30pm. Join local historians Erin Farley and team for a guided walk uncovering sites in Dundee connected to the city’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. 
  • Black Performances on the Dundee Stage (1840s–1940s) – Wednesday 15 October, 6.30pm, Dalhousie Building. Discover the Black artists who brought music, drama, and activism to Dundee’s stages — from Ira Aldridge and Juba to Paul Robeson. 

You can find more details and booking information on the University’s Black History Month page. 

We’re here to help 

If you’d like to explore more about Black history, culture, or identity, our Library team is here for you. Whether you’re hunting down research materials, looking for something inspiring to read, or just have a quick question, our staff at all library sites are always happy to help — no matter how big or small the query. 

This Black History Month, take time to celebrate, reflect, and learn. 
Together, let’s stand firm in power and pride — honouring the stories, voices, and creativity that continue to shape our world and our University community.