Galvin Library is the recipient of a 2013 grant from the National Endowment of the Humanities issued in cooperation with the American Library Association. Entitled Muslim Journeys Bookshelf, the grant consists of twenty-three books, three films, and access to Oxford Islamic Studies Online, and is part of the NEH’s Bridging Cultures initiative. View a complete list of titles here.

In IIT’s diverse population of students, faculty and staff, Galvin Library recognized an exceptional opportunity to examine and discuss Islamic art, literature, and scholarship with the IIT and surrounding community. Library staff submitted its winning proposal by collaborating with various university departments and student organizations across campus to put together a calendar of monthly events for 2013 that will feature titles from the Muslim Journeys Bookshelf and the university community will be invited to participate in film screenings, book discussions, hands-on art sessions, lectures by scholars and much more. Watch for events from the Student Center for Diversity and Inclusion, the Office of Spirituality and Service Learning, the International Center, the Office for Student Success, Access and Diversity, the Muslim Students Association, and others.

The first event will be the film “Prince Among Slaves” with a discussion immediately following to be held Thursday, February 28 in the MTCC Auditorium from 3:00 – 6:00 pm. “Prince Among Slaves” recounts the true story of an African Muslim prince who was captured and sold into slavery in the American South. After 40 years of enslavement, he regained his freedom, became a national celebrity, and dined in the White House. This is an incredible story about an incredible man who endured the humiliation of slavery without losing his dignity or his hope for freedom.