It’s week seven of our Kansas sesquicentennial series, and in honor of Black History Month we’re taking a closer look at Kansas writer, photographer and film director, Gordon Parks.
This future director of the movie Shaft was born in Fort Scott, Kansas, and worked for Vogue and Life magazines. He was the first African American to direct a major studio picture with his adaptation of his book, The Learning Tree.
About 52 for 150
Every object has a story, and stories build history. To celebrate 150 years of Kansas statehood we’re featuring 52 objects (or collections of related objects)—something new each week throughout the year—from the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library’s 130-year-old special, and permanent collections, that represent our collective state history and cultural diversity.
Our collections are available for teachers, students, researchers and general interest, and we hope this online video program will provide insight into what’s so “special” about Special Collections. Your library’s commitment to collecting art and preserving local history makes it possible for users today and in the future to have immediate access to invaluable research material and cultural artifacts.
To learn more about Gordon Parks’ work in our collection, or to get help finding books and videos about him and his work, call or stop by the Sabatini Gallery (785-580-4515). We’re located on your right just beyond the Library rotunda entrance.