Florida A&M University’s Meek-Eaton Black Archives, Research Center and Museum (MEBA) has received a $500,000 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The funding comes through the IMLS Museum Grants for African American History and Culture program. This is the second time in three years that MEBA has been awarded a grant from IMLS.
MEBA, established in 1976 and located on FAMU’s main campus, is among a small number of federally designated repositories dedicated to African American history and culture. The grant arrives during a period when several federal funding sources for museums and archives have been eliminated this year. Despite these challenges, MEBA has continued to secure national support.
“We are deeply honored to receive this grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, which allows us to advance phase two of our 21st Century Access Program,” said Timothy A. Barber, MEBA director. “This funding not only strengthens our ability to expand digital access to our collections and build the operational capacity needed to meet growing demands, but also ensures robust support for our students through a multi-year internship program designed to prepare the next generation of museum and archival professionals.”
Barber also acknowledged Florida A&M University’s administration for their ongoing support of MEBA’s mission.
“This investment underscores the national significance of the Meek-Eaton Black Archives, Research Center and Museum, and its role in preserving and advancing African American history,” said FAMU Provost Allyson L. Watson, Ph.D. “As the No. 1 Public HBCU in the nation, FAMU remains committed to strengthening institutional resources that equip our students with the skills and experiences needed to lead in the museum and cultural heritage professions of the future.”
The new funding will be used for collection care, digitization efforts such as MEBA Digital, educational programming, and increased public engagement. These initiatives are intended to maintain MEBA’s role as an important resource for students, researchers, and the public interested in African American heritage.
For more information about MEBA, visit famu.edu/meba or call (850) 599-3020.
