Full Pearl Thompson Interview

When she was a student at Shaw University in 1942, Pearl Thompson was not allowed to check out a book from the Olivia Raney library because of her race. At the age of 92, Thompson, who now lives in Cincinnati, visited Raleigh and took the opportunity to get the library card she was denied 73 years ago. After receiving her card she was interviewed by County Commissioner, Dr. James West, and the manager of the Richard B. Harrison Community Library, Wanda Cox-Bailey. The answers and stories she shared were recorded in their entirety. Read the full story of the event: http://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/community/midtown-raleigh-news/mrn-community/article26148442.html

Added 5 Aug 2026