Meek-Eaton Black Archives Awarded $500K Institute of Museum and Library Services Grant
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.— Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) Meek-Eaton Black Archives, Research Center and Museum (MEBA) has been awarded a $500,000 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through its Museum Grants for African American History and Culture program. This marks MEBA’s second IMLS award in three years, further solidifying its role as a national leader in the preservation, interpretation, and accessibility of African American history and culture.
MEBA, founded in 1976 and housed on the main campus of Florida A&M University, is one of only a handful of federally designated repositories for African American history and culture.
The news comes as an unexpected yet welcome development, as several federal funding sources for museums and archives were eliminated this year. Despite these challenges, MEBA’s continued success in securing competitive national support underscores its resilience and growing impact as a premier cultural institution.
“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 applauded FAMU administration for their steadfast support and commitment to the Meek-Eaton Black Archives’ mission and long-term vision.
“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.”
With this latest award, MEBA will continue advancing its mission to safeguard and share the rich cultural heritage of African American communities. The grant will support ongoing collection care, digitization initiatives like MEBA Digital, educational programming, and expanded public engagement, ensuring that the Black Archives remain a vital resource for students, scholars, and the broader public.
For more information about the Meek-Eaton Black Archives, Research Center and Museum, visit famu.edu/meba or call (850) 599-3020.
Media Contacts:
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
Deidre P. Williams
Director of Communications
Office of the Provost
deidre.williams@famu.edu
