Turn to the African American Museum of Iowa for research resources and assistance. Find an archive rich in materials related to African American history and culture on a local, state, national, and international level at our facility in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Research assistance is available for researchers unable to come to the museum.
Archives
Search a wide variety of materials including documents, manuscripts, photographs, sheet music, scrapbooks, oral histories, and digital media in our archives. An appointment is required, and all researchers must complete the research request form below. Appointments are available Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
You may use laptops, cameras, cell phones, paper, and pencil when using archival materials. Other items, such as bags, pens, etc., must be left in a designated location separate from the work area. Food and beverages are not permitted.
Digital photographs are permitted for personal use only. For any other use (exhibition, publication, etc.), you must make a formal request in writing, which is subject to the approval of the Curator. Please contact the Curator for information about use and reproduction fees.
Off-Site Services
If you are unable to visit the museum, ask our curatorial staff about support for limited research inquiries. This may include referrals to other institutions or resources. Up to 30 minutes of staff time is provided per inquiry. Please contact the Curator for information about use and reproduction fees and policies. You can also use:
- Thousands of documents and photographs available to search and browse through our online collection.
- Dozens of oral history videos and transcripts oral histories project available on our YouTube channel.
Services Not Provided
The African American Museum of Iowa does not provide:
- Appraisals
- Extensive or detailed research
