The History

ART | library deco was founded in 2013 by Dr. kYmberly Keeton as a graduate research practicum at the University of North Texas. What began as an academic inquiry into cultural preservation has since evolved into a vibrant, Texas-based digital library dedicated to curating, preserving, and presenting multidisciplinary African American cultural materials.

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A Digital Art Library with a Cultural Mission

Since its inception, ART | library deco has operated as a virtual institution—delivering original news reporting, digital exhibitions, and open-access archival content. The library bridges historical preservation with forward-thinking cultural innovation, offering a model for how digital platforms can serve as both archive and creative space.

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Our Guiding Vision

Grounded in research, rooted in Black history, and inspired by a bold creative vision, ART | library deco is a cultural beacon. We believe in the transformative power of accessible knowledge. Our work ensures that African American stories, artworks, and archives are not only preserved—but actively celebrated across digital and physical landscapes.

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Signature Initiatives

ART | library deco’s mission comes to life through a range of impactful programs:

• Texas Black Artists Web Collective: Showcasing and supporting Black visual artists across Texas
• Hip Hop Lib Guide: Connecting scholars and communities to the cultural and academic narratives of hip hop
• Canvases: A digital literary zine that fosters collaborative storytelling and creative expression
• In-House Repository: Preserving African American community archives and artistic legacies for future generations

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Expanding Our Presence

A new chapter is unfolding: ART | library deco is developing its first physical location in Fort Worth, Texas. This space will serve as a research hub, community archive, and creative center. Supporting this vision is the Friends of ART | library deco, a nonprofit partner committed to fundraising, advocacy, and volunteerism in service of our mission.

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Our Manifesto

This is more than preservation.

It is a declaration.

ART | library deco is a living, evolving testament to Black creativity, intellect, and memory—pushing boundaries, redefining archives, and asserting that Black history is not only worth remembering, but worth building upon.

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ART | library deco is owned and operated by Novella Media, LLC, a creative literary arts and digital media company dedicated to the stewardship and distribution of its virtual art library, gallery, and archival repository.