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The Indianapolis Public Library Appoints Alexus Hunt Manager of the Center for Black Literature and Culture

04/19/2024
The Indianapolis Public Library Appoints Alexus Hunt Manager of the Center for Black Literature and Culture
Alexus Hunt holds a Master of Library Science and a Master of African American and African Diaspora Studies from Indiana University Bloomington
Alexus Hunt holds a Master of Library Science and a Master of African American and African Diaspora Studies from Indiana University Bloomington.

The Indianapolis Public Library has promoted Alexus Hunt to the position of manager of the Center for Black Literature and Culture (CBLC).

Hunt will plan, direct, and oversee the operations, fiscal health, staff, and volunteers of the Center for Black Literature and Culture, providing leadership and direction while fostering an environment that celebrates and promotes Black cultural heritage.

Hunt brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her new role. She holds a Master of Library Science and a Master of African American and African Diaspora Studies from Indiana University Bloomington, along with Bachelor's degrees in English and Africana Studies from Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis.

Deeply engaged in the Indianapolis community, Hunt is an alumna of the Center for Leadership Development, a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and a member of the Indianapolis Junior League. Prior to her appointment as manager of the CBLC, Hunt served as a dedicated Youth Services Librarian at The Indianapolis Public Library's Fort Ben Branch.

Gregory Hill, CEO of the Indianapolis Public Library, expressed enthusiasm about Hunt's appointment.

“The Center for Black Literature and Culture is integral to our Library system, providing programs and resources that help all members of the Indianapolis community explore and appreciate Black cultural heritage,” said Hill. “Her dedication, positive outlook, and commitment to community service will serve her well in this important role within The Indianapolis Public Library.”

The Center for Black Literature and Culture is located at Central Library, 40 East St. Clair St., Indianapolis. Though the work of Black authors can be found throughout the entirety of The Indianapolis Public Library system, the CBLC provides a deeper dive for those seeking to celebrate the contributions of the Black community or build a better awareness of Black culture and heritage.

The collection includes more than 25,000 books, ebooks, movies and music covering the culture and history of the African diaspora in the U.S. It includes topics such as the Civil Rights Movement and Black music history, every genre from urban fiction to speculative fiction, and a robust children’s collection. The collection can be requested at any branch or Shared System venue with an IndyPL library card.

In addition to the collection, the CBLC regularly hosts authors, poets, and other programs throughout the year including the annual Juneteenth Bookfest, Kwanzaa Celebration, and various other author talks and workshops.

Hunt shared her vision for the CBLC, emphasizing her dedication to community service and education.

“My lifelong goal has been to serve my community and uplift others,” said Hunt. “I envision the CBLC as a hub for fostering understanding and appreciation of the contributions of people of African descent, locally and globally. I aim to cultivate a welcoming space where individuals of all backgrounds may engage with the rich tapestry of Black history and culture. Together, we will honor the legacy of Black literature and culture while building, recording, and adding to the history created every day.”

For more information about the CBLC and its offerings, visit cblc.indypl.org.