Dunbar Historical Library, San Angelo

About Dunbar Historical Library

Dunbar Historical Library is a museum of African-American history located in San Angelo, Texas. Visitors explore a collection of more than 17,000 books, journals, newspapers and periodicals about topics relevant to black people throughout history. The library began as a small collection housed in the basement of St. Paul's Methodist Church. Thomas William Dunbar, who served as president of San Angelo's Colored YMCA, spearheaded the campaign to establish an official library for blacks in the city and helped raise funds to construct a dedicated building for literary activities. The library is one of San Angelo's most significant historical landmarks and the oldest free public library in the city. A visit suits anyone interested in African-American history, local heritage and the role of community institutions in providing access to information and learning resources.