Summary of NPR's "Consider This" Episode: The Morgan Library's Quest to Honor a Matriarch in Archiving

In this compelling episode of NPR's Consider This, listeners are introduced to the remarkable story of Belle da Costa Green, a pioneering librarian whose legacy continues to shape the Morgan Library and Museum in New York. The episode delves into Green's life, her groundbreaking work in librarianship, and the personal challenges she faced as a Black woman navigating a highly segregated America.

Introduction: A Real-Life Gilded Age Tale

The episode opens with a vivid portrayal of Belle da Costa Green's ascent in the elite social circles of Gilded Age New York. Host Ailsa Chang sets the stage by likening Green's life to a movie plot, emphasizing her role as an influential figure and her collaboration with one of America's wealthiest men.

Ailsa Chang [00:00]: "In Gilded Age New York, a glamorous, self-possessed young woman becomes an influential figure in wealthy social circles... But this story is true."

Belle da Costa Green: A Trailblazing Librarian

Erica Chilella, curator for A Librarian's Legacy exhibit at the Morgan Library, is introduced as a key voice in recounting Green's contributions. Chilella highlights Green's unique position in American librarianship as one of the few women and Black individuals in the field during her time.

Erica Chilella [00:23]: "Belle Green is the most fascinating librarian in American history... she was a trailblazer."

Chang provides historical context, explaining the origins of the Morgan Library and Green's pivotal role in its development. Appointed as the librarian in 1905 and later as the director in 1924, Green was instrumental in curating the library's esteemed collection of medieval writings, rare books, and illuminated manuscripts.

Ailsa Chang [00:43]: "...the Morgan was originally intended to house J.P. Morgan's personal collection. That's thanks in large part to Belle da Costa Green."

Passing as White: Navigating a Segregated Society

A significant portion of the episode explores Green's personal life, particularly her decision to pass as white in a segregated America. Chang and Chilella discuss the societal pressures and dangers that influenced Green's choice, shedding light on the broader racial and gender challenges of the era.

Ailsa Chang [02:23]: "A library was an unusually prominent role for a woman at the turn of the last century. And it would have been unheard of for a Black woman. But this woman chose to pass as white to survive."

Chillella reveals that the decision to pass was a family strategy, led by Green's mother, Genevieve. This choice was made to navigate the harsh realities of racial segregation and to secure professional opportunities that would otherwise be inaccessible.

Erica Chilella [06:11]: "The decision to pass was actually a family choice and it was really spearheaded by her mother... she really saw the struggles of what it meant to be African American in this country."

Professional Excellence and Legacy

Despite the personal sacrifices, Green excelled professionally. She was known for her meticulous cataloging and her vision of a library accessible to all, not just the elite. Chilella emphasizes Green's forward-thinking approach, advocating for the public accessibility of the library's resources long before it became a common practice.

Erica Chilella [08:15]: "She really believed that everyone should have access to these materials, not just the super wealthy. And that is a testament to her legacy."

Green's influence extends beyond her tenure at the Morgan Library. Her dedication to making rare and valuable collections available to scholars has left an indelible mark on the library community, promoting the idea that libraries serve as vital public spaces for education and discovery.

Conclusion: Celebrating Belle da Costa Green's Impact

As the episode wraps up, Chang expresses anticipation for the ongoing exhibits and encourages listeners to explore A Librarian's Legacy to gain a deeper appreciation of Green's contributions. The episode honors Green's resilience and vision, highlighting her as a cornerstone in the history of librarianship and an inspiring figure in the fight for equal access to knowledge.

Ailsa Chang [08:56]: "I can't wait to check this out."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Ailsa Chang [00:00]: Introduction to Belle da Costa Green's influential role in Gilded Age New York.
• Erica Chilella [00:23]: Description of Green as "the most fascinating librarian in American history."
• Ailsa Chang [02:23]: Highlighting the rarity of a Black woman leading a prominent cultural institution at the time.
• Erica Chilella [06:11]: Explanation of Green's decision to pass as white as a family strategy.
• Erica Chilella [08:15]: Affirmation of Green's belief in accessible public libraries.

Takeaways

• Pioneering Leadership: Belle da Costa Green broke racial and gender barriers to lead one of America's most prestigious libraries.

• Legacy of Accessibility: Her vision ensured that the Morgan Library remained a place where knowledge is accessible to all, shaping modern librarianship.

• Personal Sacrifice: Green's choice to pass as white underscores the personal costs of navigating systemic racism during her time.

• Enduring Impact: The Morgan Library's continued celebration of her legacy serves as a testament to her indelible contributions to the field.

This episode of Consider This not only illuminates the life of a remarkable woman but also invites listeners to reflect on the ongoing importance of inclusivity and accessibility in educational institutions.