Frances E. W. Harper Literary Society (Librariana C)

The Frances E. W. Harper Literary Society was founded in 1987 to provide intellectual stimulation to the citizens of Newark by sponsoring literary lectures by international, national, and local writers; writers’ workshops; book discussions; poetry and historical celebrations; and recitation programs for youth. It is run by members of the Newark community for members of the Newark community, and it has functioned out of the James Brown African American Room at the Newark Public Library, initially through an invitation from the late James Brown, the Black Studies Librarian.

In partnership with the Africana Institute of the Essex County College, the Harriet Tubman Elementary School (a National Blue Ribbon school), and several other community-based organizations, it has organized programs for adults and young adults alike.

It is named after Frances E. W. Harper (1825-1911), the famous nineteenth-century poet, novelist, teacher, and activist. Born a free colored person in Maryland, she moved to Ohio in 1850 and became a staunch abolitionist. In the 1870s, she joined various women’s groups and became a strong advocate for women’s rights. She died in Philadelphia in her 86th year