Honoring 50 Years of The Douglass-Truth Library: A Community Story That Still Matters

This year marks a powerful milestone in Seattle’s history — 50 years since the Douglass-Truth Branch of The Seattle Public Library was renamed to honor Frederick Douglass and Sojourner Truth. And on Almost The Weekend, Besa Gordon sat down with Brian Den Hartog-Lindsey, Curator of the African American Collection at the Douglass-Truth Branch, to talk about why this moment still matters today.

The renaming of the library wasn’t a symbolic gesture made behind closed doors — it was a community-led effort. At the time, the Central District was becoming a predominantly Black neighborhood, yet the library’s original name did not reflect the people it served. Community members, including local Black organizations and leaders, pushed back. They raised funds, advocated for representation, and helped establish what was then known as the Negro Collection — now the African American Collection.

When it came time to choose a new name, the community voted. Frederick Douglass and Sojourner Truth tied. Instead of choosing one over the other, residents insisted on honoring both, and the Douglass-Truth name was officially adopted — a rare and meaningful example of a public space shaped directly by the people it serves.

During the conversation, Brian shared how the library continues to be a pillar for the community, even as the Central District has changed over the decades. He spoke about the importance of reclaiming space, preserving history, and making sure Black stories are not erased — especially for younger generations.

While the anniversary is the focus, Brian also touched on the depth of the African American Collection housed at the branch. From rare historical artifacts to original publications and local Black history, the collection exists not just to be stored, but to be used, explored, and shared. Brian emphasized that the collection belongs to the community — not just the library.

The 50th anniversary celebration brings that history full circle. With music, food, intergenerational connections, and longtime contributors returning to the space, the event is less about looking back and more about reaffirming why Douglass-Truth continues to matter.

As Brian shared, the library isn’t just a building — it’s a place of belonging. A third space. A home for history, learning, and community pride.

And 50 years later, the story of Douglass-Truth is still being written.