The Glen Lake Library will host historian Christine Byron on Monday, October 21 at 5 p.m., for a presentation about the “Green Book”, a travel guide for African Americans.
The Green Book was published from 1938 through 1967, and listed places where African Americans were welcomed customers. Byron will give an overview of the history of the Green Book, and focus on places in Michigan, including Idlewild, Detroit, and Paw Paw. As a historian of Michigan tourism, Byron will take you on a journey back to a time when Black travelers were advised to “carry your Green Book with you … you may need it.”
Byron is retired from her position as the Local Historical Collections librarian for the Grand Rapids Public Library. She serves on the boards of the Grand Rapids Historical Commission and the Michigan Postcard Club. She is also a member of the selection committees for Michigan Notable Books, and the annual Michigan Author Award, both given by the Library of Michigan.
