Dr. Asa G. Hilliard III | private Library donation PROJECT

The Asa G. Hilliard, III Book Collection  is a scholarly and reading library. Many books are in good or very good condition; many books also feature markings by Dr. Hilliard (including his name or personal stamp), clearly indicating provenance and increasing value of the items. Some books were damaged. There are many first edition or signed copies in the collection, but most of the first edition copies were not (individually) substantially financially valuable (over $400). 

The scholarly and historical value of this collection cannot be overstated. This collection is unique and, as a whole, represents significant scholarly, historical, and value. In these subject areas, there are only a few scholars with the impact, longevity, and breadth of knowledge represented by this lifetime of book collecting. This collection is substantial—particularly in the areas of African studies, Afro-Americana studies, Black education, and Black psychology. There are also numerous children’s books and other similarly compelling themes in genres such as literature, memoir, intellectual history, politics, philosophy, and science (from physics to metaphysics). Of special interest are the books about African art history, Black developmental and educational counseling, and African American life and history. 

Signed copies include books by Ivan Van Sertima, Cheka Ante Diop, Wande Abimbola, Jacob Lawrence, Maulana Karenga, John Lewis, and Alfreda Duster. There are also books written by or edited by Dr. Hilliard. Significantly, some books have family value: several books are signed by Dr. Hilliard to Mrs. Patsy Jo, some books are authored and signed by colleagues of Dr. Hilliard and two books are penned by their daughter, Dr. Patricia Hilliard-Nunn.

Dr. Hilliard is a groundbreaking scholar in Black Studies, African Studies, African American Studies, Education, and Psychology. It is a monumental accomplishment (of both the family and the university library) to acquire this entire collection and have this body of work held at one institution (which was Dr. Hilliard’s wish). 

This collection will be of enduring value to young scholars for generations to come. This collection will also be uniquely valuable to senior scholars in Africology, and the AUC Library—serving numerous Historically Black Colleges and Universities—is a perfect fit for this magnificent collection. On the whole, this will be a world-renowned collection that will draw scholars from around the globe—especially those interested in the African diaspora. 

 Dr. Asa Hilliard III was a professor in educational psychology and scholar in ancient African history and culture. Click below for more details about his bio and legacy. 

Georgia State University, specifically, the Urban Teacher Leadership Master’s Degree Program, lost a giant on August 13, 2007 when educator, psychologist and historian Asa G. Hilliard III died while leading a study tour in Egypt… 

Asa Hilliard was the Fuller E. Callaway Professor of Urban Education. Some of his many accomplishments included: serving as Dean of School of Education at San Francisco State University, an expert witness in landmark federal cases on test validity, consultant to schools in Liberia, West Africa, VP and founding member of the Association for the Study of Classical African Civilizations. 

ASA HILLIARD GSU BIO