African American Museum & Library at Oakland

A treasured Oakland resource, the African American Museum and Library at Oakland features more than 160 collections, including the diaries of prominent families, pioneers, churches, and social and political organizations. Visitors can read issues of Freedom's Journal, the Liberator, Muhammed Speakers, and the Black Panther newspapers. Guests can also listen to audio interviews with activists, educators, writers, and musicians. The reference library contains more than 12,000 volumes either by or about African Americans.

Best and worst time to go to African American Museum and Library at Oakland
Plan to visit in the afternoon. The museum is only open from noon to 5:30 p.m.

Must see at African American Museum and Library at Oakland
The museum, on the second floor, hosts permanent and traveling exhibitions that highlight African American art, history, and culture.

Admission to African American Museum and Library at Oakland
Free.

Parking and Public Transportation to African American Museum and Library at Oakland
Metered parking is available on 14th and surrounding streets. The museum and library is located two blocks from the 12th Street BART station.

Food at African American Museum and Library at Oakland
None in the museum/library, but restaurants abound on nearby blocks. Check out Tambo Peruvian Restaurant, Annie's Deli, or San Francisco Soup Company, for starters.

Insider tip for visitors to African American Museum and Library at Oakland
Take advantage of the seed lending library, where you can check out seeds and return next generation seeds for others to borrow.

Author's bio: Heather Johnson is a freelance writer living in Oakland, California.