African Studies Library (ASL)
The African Studies Library (ASL) was founded in 1953 and is located on the 6th floor of the Mugar Memorial Library, accessible via the North elevator.
Our primary function is to support Boston University’s African Studies Center and all undergraduate, graduate, and faculty research on Africa. Students and faculty from area institutions, the general public, and beyond are welcome to consult our extensive collections. If you would like to visit or access collections housed in the reading room, please contact us directly at asl@bu.edu so that we can make arrangements for your visit in advance. In addition to our circulating Africana collections, the ASL also houses several special collections. Our staff provides a variety of services including reference assistance, library orientation and instruction, and individual consultations.
Contact Us
Research & Resources
- African Studies DatabasesFind databases specializing in African Studies
- Researching Africa A list of guides to help you research Africa
- Maps of Africa Sorted by country, title, or date
- African Newspapers and News ResourcesIn print and online
- Special Collections at the African Studies LibraryIncluding Archive of the Republic of Niger, Paula Hirsch Foster Collection, ephemera / pamphlet collections, and more
Teaching & Learning
- InstructionTo arrange an instruction session for a class, for a group or individual project, or to create a course guide for research strategies
- Course Materials (Reserves) For InstructorsAdding Materials to Reserves and Reading Lists
Visiting & Spaces
- HoursBuilding and services hours
- Maps & DirectionsGetting to African Studies Library
- Floor PlansNavigating our spaces