The New York Public Library honors the life of the icon Harry Belafonte, who passed away on April 25 at the age of 96. In his lifetime, Belafonte was an accomplished activist and entertainer, who used his success to fight for equal rights and social justice.

In 2016, Belafonte was named a Library Lion, an annual award that honors distinguished individuals in many different fields. In 2017, the 115th Street Library was renamed the Harry Belafonte Library in his honor.

Belafonte also donated his personal archive, including recordings, letters, notes, and photographs, to the NYPL Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. Joy Bivins, Director of the Schomburg Center, released an official  statement about the passing of Belafonte:

The death of Harry Belafonte is a tremendous loss for us all. Mr. Belafonte was a cultural icon whose impact on Black history was far-reaching, from his legendary contributions as an artist to his human and civil rights activism. His legacy will burn bright for generations to come.

Belafonte also left his mark on the New York Public Library. Belafonte once said he found an “epiphany” at the Schomburg Center for it was at the American Negro Theatre in the Schomburg that inspired him to begin his onstage career. As the namesake of the 115th Street Branch and through the acquisition of his collection at the Schomburg Center, we are honored to carry on a small part of his bright legacy. 

As the King of Calypso takes his final bow, we cherish the gifts he shared with us and honor his incredible voice that strengthened justice, gave us an unforgettable rhythm, and inspired us on the screen, stage, and beyond.

The New York Public Library honors the life of the icon Harry Belafonte, who passed away on April 25 at the age of 96. In his lifetime, Belafonte was an accomplished activist and entertainer, who used his success to fight for equal rights and social justice.

In 2016, Belafonte was named a Library Lion, an annual award that honors distinguished individuals in many different fields. In 2017, the 115th Street Library was renamed the Harry Belafonte Library in his honor.

Belafonte also donated his personal archive, including recordings, letters, notes, and photographs, to the NYPL Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. Joy Bivins, Director of the Schomburg Center, released an official  statement about the passing of Belafonte:

The death of Harry Belafonte is a tremendous loss for us all. Mr. Belafonte was a cultural icon whose impact on Black history was far-reaching, from his legendary contributions as an artist to his human and civil rights activism. His legacy will burn bright for generations to come.

Belafonte also left his mark on the New York Public Library. Belafonte once said he found an “epiphany” at the Schomburg Center for it was at the American Negro Theatre in the Schomburg that inspired him to begin his onstage career. As the namesake of the 115th Street Branch and through the acquisition of his collection at the Schomburg Center, we are honored to carry on a small part of his bright legacy. 

As the King of Calypso takes his final bow, we cherish the gifts he shared with us and honor his incredible voice that strengthened justice, gave us an unforgettable rhythm, and inspired us on the screen, stage, and beyond.