How to Visit Hollis F. Price

Hollis F. Price is a name associated with a significant cultural and historical landmark located in the heart of Mississippi, specifically on the campus of Alcorn State University. While not a widely known destination to the general public, Hollis F. Price Memorial Library stands as a cornerstone of academic excellence, African American heritage, and institutional pride. For students, researchers, historians, and visitors interested in HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) history, visiting Hollis F. Price is more than a tripits an immersion into a legacy of scholarship, resilience, and community. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough on how to visit Hollis F. Price, including logistical planning, best practices, essential tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you're planning a solo research expedition, a family educational outing, or an institutional tour, this resource ensures you make the most of your visit.

Step-by-Step Guide

Visiting Hollis F. Price Memorial Library requires thoughtful preparation. Unlike typical tourist attractions, this site functions primarily as an academic institutions central library, meaning access protocols, hours, and services differ from public libraries or museums. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a seamless and productive visit.

Step 1: Confirm the Location and Address

The Hollis F. Price Memorial Library is located at Alcorn State University, 1000 ASU Drive, Lorman, Mississippi 39096. Lorman is a small unincorporated community in Claiborne County, approximately 15 miles south of Port Gibson and 50 miles northwest of Jackson, MS. Before setting out, verify the exact address using Google Maps or Apple Maps. Ensure your GPS is updated, as some rural routes may not be accurately labeled. The library is centrally located on campus, near the main administration building and the university chapel.

Step 2: Check Operating Hours

Alcorn State University operates on an academic calendar, and the librarys hours vary by semester, holidays, and exam periods. During the fall and spring semesters, the library is typically open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday hours are limited, often from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. During summer sessions and university breaks, hours are reduced. Always confirm current hours by visiting the official Alcorn State University website or contacting the library directly via email. Avoid visiting on university holidays such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Thanksgiving, or spring break unless explicitly stated as open.

Step 3: Determine Your Purpose for Visiting

Your reason for visiting will dictate your experience. Are you a student seeking research materials? A historian studying African American literature? A tourist interested in architecture? Each purpose requires different preparation:

• Students and Researchers: Identify specific collections, databases, or archival materials you need. The library houses the James H. and Lillian B. Smith Collection, which includes rare manuscripts on civil rights and Black education.
• Visitors and Tourists: Request a guided campus tour that includes the library. These are often available through the Office of Admissions or the University Visitor Center.
• Alumni: Access alumni-specific services, such as reunion events or library privileges, may require prior registration.

Step 4: Obtain Necessary Access Credentials

While the library is open to the public, certain areas and services require identification or prior authorization:

• Public visitors are welcome to browse general collections without a library card.
• For borrowing privileges, non-students must apply for a community borrower card. This requires a government-issued photo ID and proof of address. Applications are processed at the Circulation Desk.
• Access to special collections (archives, rare books, manuscripts) requires a written request submitted at least 48 hours in advance. These materials are non-circulating and must be viewed in the designated reading room under staff supervision.

Step 5: Plan Your Transportation

Alcorn State University is located in a rural area with limited public transit. If you are not driving, consider these options:

• Personal Vehicle: The most reliable method. Parking is free and abundant on campus. Designated visitor parking is available near the library entrance.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft operate in the region but with limited availability. Schedule pickups in advance and confirm drop-off points with your driver.
• Public Transit: No direct bus service reaches the campus. The nearest Greyhound station is in Jackson, MS, approximately 60 miles away. From there, a rental car or taxi is required.

Step 6: Prepare for On-Site Navigation

The library building is a four-story brick structure with a distinctive neoclassical facade. Upon arrival:

• Enter through the main lobby on the first floor, where the Circulation Desk and security checkpoint are located.
• First floor: Reference desk, periodicals, and public computers.
• Second floor: General stacks, study carrels, and group study rooms.
• Third floor: Special Collections and Archives (by appointment only).
• Fourth floor: Administrative offices and faculty research rooms.

Maps are available at the entrance, and digital floor plans can be downloaded from the librarys website. Signage is clear, but staff are always willing to assist.

Step 7: Respect Library Etiquette

As an academic institution, quiet and focus are paramount. Observe these guidelines:

• Maintain silence in reading areas and study zones.
• Use headphones for audio content.
• Do not eat or drink near bookshelves or computer stations.
• Handle archival materials with clean hands or gloves provided by staff.
• Photography is permitted for personal use, but flash and tripods are prohibited in special collections.

Step 8: Engage with Library Staff

Librarians and archivists at Hollis F. Price are highly trained in African American studies and archival preservation. Dont hesitate to ask for assistance. Whether you need help navigating the online catalog (AlcornCat), locating a specific journal, or interpreting historical documents, staff are available during all open hours. Many have published research themselves and can offer context beyond whats in the catalog.

Step 9: Explore Related Campus Attractions

While at Alcorn State, consider extending your visit to nearby sites:

• The Alcorn State University Museum: Located adjacent to the library, it features exhibits on the universitys founding in 1871, civil rights activism, and notable alumni.
• The Presidents House: A historic structure built in 1878, now used for ceremonial events.
• The HBCU Heritage Trail: A self-guided walking tour highlighting key buildings and monuments across campus.

Step 10: Document Your Visit

Take notes, photographs (where permitted), and collect brochures. Consider writing a reflection or blog post afterward to share your experience. Many visitors find that documenting their visit enhances their understanding and preserves the significance of the experience for future reference.

Best Practices

Visiting Hollis F. Price is not merely about physical accessits about engaging meaningfully with a space that embodies the intellectual legacy of Black education in America. To ensure your visit is respectful, productive, and memorable, follow these best practices.

Plan Ahead, Especially for Special Collections

Archival materials are not stored on open shelves. Requests for rare books, letters, or oral histories must be submitted in writing. Include your full name, affiliation (if any), research topic, and specific item identifiers (call numbers, box numbers). Allow at least two business days for processing. Walk-ins without appointments may be turned away.

Respect the Cultural Significance

Hollis F. Price Memorial Library is named after a former university president who championed academic access during segregation. The building itself was funded in part by the Julius Rosenwald Fund, a historic initiative supporting Black education. Recognize that this space is sacred to many. Avoid loud conversations, inappropriate attire, or behaviors that detract from its solemn purpose.

Use Technology Wisely

The library offers free Wi-Fi, public computers, and digital access to JSTOR, ProQuest, and EBSCOhost. Download research guides or databases before arriving if you anticipate connectivity issues. Save your search history and bookmark resources for later review. Avoid downloading large files during peak hours to ensure equitable access.

Bring Appropriate Materials

While laptops and tablets are encouraged, bring a notebook and pen for quick annotations. Some archival documents are fragile and cannot be scanned on-site. Note-taking is often the best way to preserve information. Also bring a power bankoutlets may be limited during busy times.

Engage with Local Culture

Lorman and surrounding areas are rich in Southern Black culture. Consider visiting local churches, diners, or cultural centers before or after your visit. The Alcorn State University bookstore sells regional literature, art, and souvenirs. Supporting local vendors enhances the authenticity of your experience.

Be Mindful of Seasonal Events

During homecoming, graduation, or the annual HBCU Heritage Week, campus traffic and security are heightened. Parking may be restricted, and library hours may be altered. Check the university calendar before planning your trip. If visiting during these events, consider arriving early and allow extra time for movement across campus.

Follow Copyright and Citation Guidelines

Materials in the library are often protected under copyright or donor restrictions. When using images, quotes, or documents in publications, always request permission from the Special Collections Department. Proper citation is expected and encouraged. The library offers citation workshops and style guides (APA, MLA, Chicago) for users.

Support the Library

Consider making a small donation to the librarys endowment or purchasing a publication from the university press. These contributions help preserve rare materials and fund digitization projects. Even a $10 contribution can make a difference in maintaining access for future generations.

Share Your Experience Responsibly

If you post about your visit on social media, tag @AlcornState and use hashtags like

HollisFPriceLibrary or #HBCUHistory. Avoid posting images of sensitive archival documents without permission. Your online presence can help raise awareness, but do so with integrity.

Tools and Resources

Maximizing your visit to Hollis F. Price requires leveraging both digital and physical tools. Below is a curated list of essential resources to help you prepare, navigate, and extend your learning beyond the library walls.

Official Website: https://www.alcorn.edu/library

The librarys official site is the primary source for hours, policies, digital collections, and contact information. It includes:

• Online catalog: AlcornCat (searchable by author, title, subject)
• Digital archives: Access to digitized yearbooks, newspapers, and oral histories
• Research guides: Thematic collections on African American literature, civil rights, and education
• Event calendar: Workshops, lectures, and exhibitions

AlcornCat: The Library Catalog System

AlcornCat is the integrated library system used to search for books, journals, and media. It supports Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) and filters by format, date, and location. Use advanced search to narrow results to Special Collections or Archives. You can reserve items online and receive email notifications when theyre ready for pickup.

Digitized Collections

Key digital resources include:

• The Alcorn State University Archives: Over 10,000 digitized photographs, administrative records, and student newspapers from 1871present.
• The Mississippi Freedom Project: Oral histories of civil rights activists from the Delta region.
• The James H. Smith Collection: Personal papers of educators and leaders in Black higher education.

All are accessible remotely. No login is required for public collections.

Google Arts & Culture: Alcorn State University

Google has partnered with Alcorn to create a virtual tour of the campus, including a 360-degree walkthrough of the librarys main reading room and exhibits. This is ideal for preliminary exploration or for those unable to travel. Visit Google Arts & Culture to explore.

Library of Congress Digital Collections

While not hosted by Hollis F. Price, the Library of Congress offers complementary resources such as the Born in Slavery collection and the African American Newspapers archive. Cross-referencing these with Alcorns holdings can yield deeper insights.

Mobile Apps

• Libby by OverDrive: Access e-books and audiobooks from the librarys digital lending collection.
• Google Maps: Use the Indoor Maps feature to navigate the librarys interior layout.
• Evernote or Notion: Organize your research notes, citations, and photos in one place.

Books to Read Before Your Visit

Deepen your understanding with these foundational texts:

• Black Education in the South: A History of the HBCUs by James D. Anderson
• Up from Slavery by Booker T. Washington
• The Souls of Black Folk by W.E.B. Du Bois
• Alcorn State University: A Legacy of Excellence by Dr. Willie J. Wright

Academic Databases

For serious researchers, these databases are accessible via the librarys terminal computers or remotely with a community borrower card:

• JSTOR
• ProQuest Historical Newspapers
• EBSCOhost Academic Search Complete
• America: History and Life
• Black Studies Center

Local Resources

Connect with:

• Claiborne County Historical Society: Offers oral histories and land records relevant to Alcorns founding.
• Mississippi Department of Archives and History: Located in Jackson, it holds state-level records on HBCU funding and policy.

Real Examples

Real-life experiences illustrate how diverse visitors have engaged with Hollis F. Price. These examples demonstrate the librarys impact and offer practical insights for your own visit.

Example 1: A Graduate Students Research Journey

Dr. Tamara Reynolds, a doctoral candidate in Education Policy at the University of Michigan, traveled to Hollis F. Price to study the role of HBCUs in teacher training during the 1950s. She submitted a request for the Mississippi State Department of Education Reports, 19481965 series, which was stored in Box 12 of the Smith Collection. After a 72-hour approval process, she spent three days reviewing handwritten teacher evaluations and curriculum outlines. Her findings contributed to a peer-reviewed article published in the Journal of African American History. The librarians didnt just hand me filesthey gave me context, she said. They told me which teachers were later involved in desegregation lawsuits. That connection wouldnt have appeared in the catalog.

Example 2: A Family Educational Trip

The Johnson family from Atlanta visited Alcorn State during their summer road trip. Their 12-year-old daughter, Aaliyah, was assigned a school project on HBCUs. They arrived on a Saturday morning, attended a free 45-minute guided tour, and participated in a Story Time with the Librarian session designed for children. Aaliyah checked out a picture book about the founding of Alcorn and received a library card. She came home and made a poster with photos of the library, said her father. She wants to be a librarian now.

Example 3: An Alumnus Reconnecting

In 2022, James Carter, a 1972 graduate of Alcorn State, returned to the library after 50 years. He requested his undergraduate thesis from 1971, which had been digitized in 2018. He sat in the same chair he had used as a student and watched a video of his own oral history interview, conducted in 2005. I didnt know they kept that, he said, tears in his eyes. This library didnt just hold booksit held my life. His story was featured on the universitys website and later included in a documentary on alumni legacy.

Example 4: A Digital Archive Volunteer

Marisol Chen, a high school student from California, volunteered remotely through the librarys Digital Preservation Initiative. She transcribed handwritten letters from 1940s alumni, helping to make them searchable. Over six months, she indexed over 300 documents. I never left my room, she said, but I felt like I was walking the halls of Hollis F. Price. Her work was cited in a university exhibit titled Voices from the Past.

Example 5: A Cultural Tourists Reflection

After visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., British tourist Eleanor Grant sought to understand the roots of Black education beyond the capital. She flew to Jackson, rented a car, and drove to Lorman. I expected a building, she wrote in her travel blog. I got a heartbeat. The silence in the reading room felt sacred. I didnt see artifactsI saw determination. Her post went viral among HBCU enthusiasts and led to a partnership with a UK educational nonprofit to fund student exchanges.

FAQs

Is Hollis F. Price Memorial Library open to the public?

Yes. The library welcomes all visitors, including non-students, researchers, and tourists. Public access is granted to general collections without registration. Special collections require advance requests.

Do I need a library card to enter?

No. You may enter and browse the general stacks without a card. However, borrowing materials, accessing certain databases remotely, or reserving study rooms requires a community borrower card.

Can I take photos inside the library?

Yes, for personal use. Flash photography, tripods, and drone use are prohibited. Photographing archival materials requires permission from the Special Collections staff.

Are guided tours available?

Yes. Group tours (minimum 5 people) can be scheduled by contacting the Office of University Relations. Individual visitors may join drop-in tours on weekends during the academic year.

Can I access the librarys digital collections from home?

Yes. Most digitized materialsincluding photographs, yearbooks, and oral historiesare freely accessible via the librarys website. No login is required for public collections.

What are the parking options?

Free visitor parking is available in Lot C, directly across from the library entrance. Overflow parking is available in Lot B. No permits are required.

Is there Wi-Fi available?

Yes. The network name is AlcornPublic. No password is needed. Bandwidth is sufficient for research and streaming.

Can I check out books as a non-student?

Yes. Community members may apply for a borrower card at the Circulation Desk with a photo ID and proof of address. Borrowing limits and loan periods vary by material type.

Are there food or drink services inside the library?

No. Eating and drinking are not permitted in reading areas. A caf is located in the student union building, a three-minute walk away.

How do I request archival materials?

Submit a request via the librarys online form or email specialcollections@alcorn.edu at least 48 hours in advance. Include your name, contact information, and specific item identifiers. Staff will notify you when materials are ready.

Is the library accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes. The building is fully ADA-compliant with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Assistive technology, including screen readers and magnifiers, is available upon request.

Can I bring a group of students?

Yes. Educational groups of up to 25 may schedule a tailored visit. Contact the Education Outreach Coordinator for curriculum-aligned programming.

Whats the best time of year to visit?

September to November and February to April offer the most consistent hours and the least campus congestion. Avoid holidays and exam weeks for a quieter experience.

Conclusion

Visiting Hollis F. Price Memorial Library is not just about entering a buildingits about stepping into a living archive of African American intellectual history. From its meticulously preserved manuscripts to its quiet reading rooms that have echoed with the thoughts of generations of scholars, this space embodies the enduring power of education as a tool of liberation. Whether you are a student seeking primary sources, a historian tracing civil rights narratives, a family exploring heritage, or a curious traveler drawn to the soul of HBCUs, your visit to Hollis F. Price holds the potential to transform your understanding of American history.

By following the steps outlined in this guidefrom planning your transportation and verifying hours to respecting archival protocols and engaging with staffyou ensure that your visit is not only smooth but deeply meaningful. The tools and resources provided here empower you to go beyond surface-level exploration and engage with materials that have shaped the course of Black education in the United States.

Real examples remind us that this library is more than bricks and shelvesit is a vessel for memory, identity, and legacy. The graduate student who uncovered a lost chapter of teacher training, the child who found her future in a picture book, the alum who reconnected with his youththese are the stories that give Hollis F. Price its soul.

As you prepare for your journey, remember that knowledge is not passive. It is reclaimed, preserved, and passed on. When you walk through the doors of Hollis F. Price, you are not merely a visitoryou are a steward of history. Honor that responsibility. Take notes. Ask questions. Share your experience. And leave a little more light in the world than you found.