Solange Knowles is making sure rare Black works are not forgotten.

The Grammy winner announced the launch of “The Saint Heron Digital Archive Library: Part I,” a digital archival library of rare, out-of-print and first-edition works by Black and brown artists on Sept. 25. The library offers U.S.-based readers the chance to borrow titles, many of which are rare, out of print or first-edition works, free of charge for 45 days.

Here’s everything to know about Knowles’ newest venture.

Knowles teased a ‘part II’ of the library to launch in the coming weeks

Knowles took to Instagram to announce the library, which she described as a “home to our archival collection of primarily rare, out of print, and 1st edition titles by black & brown authors, poets, & artists,” The Grio reported.

She continued, “As the market and demand for these books, zines, and catalogues rises, we would like to play a small part in creating free access to the expansive range of critical thought and expression by these great mindsss.”

Knowles concluded the announcement by telling viewers to “stay tuned for part II. in the coming weekssss.”

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The Saint Heron Digital Archive Library, which is an extension of Knowles’ Saint Heron platform celebrating Black and brown art, was first introduced back in 2021. At the time, it was a seasonal project that highlighted rare and out-of-print titles for a limited time.

The new library gives viewers access to a wide range of Black and brown art, including “An Ordinary Woman” by Lucille Clifton, “American Negro Art” by Cedric Dover, “Black Artists on Art” Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 by Samella Lewis and Ruth Waddy, “The Black Unicorn: Poems” by Audre Lorde, and “The Theme Is Blackness” by Ed Bullins.

The library operates on a free, honor-based borrowing system

According to the terms on its website, the library operates on a free, honor-based borrowing system available to U.S. residents exclusively. Users can borrow one book at a time and requests will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

The library offers complimentary shipping and return postage and books must be returned within 45 days. Books that are lost or damaged are subject to market-value charges.

“Books not renewed (if applicable) or returned to the Saint Heron Community Library following three reminder notices, nor explanation, will be deemed lost and will be subject to charge,” the website reads.

Solange Knowles

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