We are...
“Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things!”
The Friends of the Broward County African America Research Library & Cultural Center (AARLCC; formerly Friends of the Von D. Mizell Library) is an organization whose membership is the lifeblood of library support. Within the scope of its mission, the Friends of the Broward County AARLCC advocates for library services, and provides resources to support library programs.
The members of the Friends are people of all ages from all walks of life who represent all of the communities of Broward County and beyond. These “ordinary “ people work with the library administration in “building bridges” to develop and maintain youth and adult services for the community. They give of their time and special skills in support of library projects and activities that support the mission of the library. They also raise funds to support library programs, staff development and appreciation.
Each Friend serves as a public relations instrument for the library by increasing the public’s awareness of the library and its services. As we move forward to strengthen our advocacy efforts, increase contributions, face challenges, and utilize opportunities to meet the needs of the library, you are invited to become a Friend. Join us today.
Why we need you to become a member today
A Message from our President
Welcome to the Friends of the African American Research Library and Cultural Center! As President of this passionate group, it’s my pleasure to invite you to explore our site and discover the many ways we support the legacy, history, and future of the African American community through this incredible institution. Here, you’ll find resources and events that bring together history, art, and culture, celebrating the rich and diverse stories that have shaped African American heritage.
​
Our Friends group is dedicated to fostering engagement, supporting programs, and preserving the valuable resources the African American Research Library and Cultural Center provides. Whether you’re interested in joining as a member, learning more about our upcoming initiatives, or supporting our mission, we welcome you and look forward to connecting with you.
​
Thank you for visiting, and we hope you’ll join us in our mission to uplift and empower the voices, history, and culture that make our community strong.
​
Yours in Friendship and Service,
Luwando Wright, President
Friends of the Broward County African American Research Library and Cultural Center
A Message from our President
Officers
Luwando Wright
President
D’Rene Benson
First Vice-President
Anthony Avery
Second Vice-President
Jarrod Mills
Third Vice-President
Karen Smith
Corresponding Secretary
Angelica Curry
Financial Secretary
​
Catherine Minnis
Treasurer
​
Gloria Bailey
Immediate Past President
​
​
Members at Large
Pamela Adams
Audrey Evans
JoAnn Fletcher
Troyce Gill
Bobby Henry, Sr.
Mary Lou Barner
Maude Storr
Honorary Members
Milton & Barbara Jones Family Foundation, Inc.
Sponsors
& Collaborators
Thank you to all our 2025 Sponsors.