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Dayton's Poet: Experience Paul Laurence Dunbar

February 7, 2012

Have you ever wondered how the Paul Laurence Dunbar Library got its name? Or wanted to learn more about the poetry quoted on the walls behind the circulation desk? During February, the Dunbar Library joins with the Wright State University community in celebrating the life and legacy of Paul Laurence Dunbar by offering the opportunity to experience Dunbar through a variety of events.

Here in the University Libraries, the staff of Special Collections and Archives has created two new exhibits. In the first floor lobby, the Alumni Case showcases first-edition printings of Dunbar's books in poetry and fiction as well as photographs and documents highlighting Dunbar's life. On the fourth floor in the Archives, you will find a special exhibit containing a handwritten, unpublished poem written by Dunbar for a Dayton neighbor.

As part of this celebration, the University Libraries is proud to announce the complete redesign and relaunch of the Paul Laurence Dunbar website. The newly updated information contains more than 400 of his published poems and a new gallery of images from collections here in the Archives and the Ohio Historical Society. Be sure to check out the expanded biography, explore his books of poetry, and learn about places of interest you can visit in the Dayton area. If you are writing a paper or doing a project about Dunbar, the Selected Resources section offers information about available primary and secondary sources.

The exhibits and Dunbar website are just a few of the exciting events happening during the month of February here at Wright State:

• Local artist Bing Davis and other artists have an exhibit in the Student Union gallery throughout the month of February.
• Dr. Herbert Martin performs his outstanding Dunbar readings.
• The Dayton Contemporary Dance Company will present a Dunbar-inspired performance.
• Mr. Charles Austin will present a fireside chat at the Dunbar House.
• Take part in the "His Poetry, Our Way" open mic night, to the accompaniment of local jazz musicians.

For a full listing of Paul Laurence Dunbar activities going on around Dayton in February, see http://webapp2.wright.edu/web1/newsroom/2012/02/05/paul-laurence-dunbar-black-history-month-celebrated-all-month-at-wright-state/.

Please join the University Libraries and Wright State University this February and "Experience Paul Laurence Dunbar" in a whole new way.