ITHACA, NY (CortacaToday) – An event at a local Ithaca bookstore was a success.

On Saturday, November 9, 2024, Buffalo Street Books hosted a celebration for James Baldwin’s 100th birthday. It was well attended with nearly 50 people of all ages showing up to hear scholars speak and discuss the late novelist, poet, essayist, playwright, and voice of the civil rights movement.

Guest speakers included Cornell Africana Studies and Research Center/College of Arts and Sciences Professor Emerita Anne Adams, and the Director for the John Henrik Clarke Africana Library at Cornell, Mwalimu Kofi Acree. Both spoke about Baldwin’s work, including his personal impact on them, and his continued impact across the globe, including France and Germany.

L to R: Mwalimu Kofi Acree, Director, John Henrik Clarke Africana Library at Cornell, Anne Adams, Professor Emerita Cornell African Studies and Research Center/College of Arts and Sciences

After their presentations, Adams and Acree held an open discussion with attendees, who also were treated to a complimentary copy of one of three centennial hardcover books containing essays written by James Baldwin, including Notes of a Native Son. Acree, also the Curator of Africana Collections for the Division of Rare and Manuscript Collections, teased an upcoming exhibit that will feature original copies of some of Baldwin’s work.

Earlier this month, Buffalo Street Books announced a planned switch to a non-profit model to counter sustained financial losses. A fundraiser to support operations is ongoing. You can donate here.

For more information about Buffalo Street Books, membership, and upcoming programming, visit their website.