Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) Meek-Eaton Black Archives, Research Center, and Museum (MEBA) has been awarded a significant $500,000 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through its Museum Grants for African American History and Culture program.
This achievement marks MEBA’s second IMLS award in three years, cementing its position as a national leader in the preservation, interpretation, and accessibility of African American history and culture. Founded in 1976 on FAMU’s main campus, MEBA is one of only a handful of federally designated repositories for this vital history.
The grant arrives as welcome news, especially given the recent elimination of several federal funding sources for museums and archives. MEBA’s repeated 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 credited the unwavering support of the FAMU administration for the Archives’ continued mission and long-term vision.
FAMU Provost Allyson L. Watson, Ph.D., emphasized the national significance of the investment. “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,” she said. “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 to safeguard and share the rich cultural heritage of African American communities. The funding will support crucial collection care, major digitization initiatives like MEBA Digital, enhanced educational programming, and expanded public engagement, ensuring the Black Archives remains a vital resource for scholars, students, and the broader public for years to come.
