Category: Library Display

America 250 – An Exhibit Honoring Key Documents in United States History

With the 250th anniversary commemoration of the Declaration Independence (and the United States by extension) being celebrated throughout 2026, the University Libraries features several resources that trace the documentary history of the United States from pre-nation to the present day.

A special exhibit honoring the four major early documents that created the Republic along with the Declaration, the Articles of Confederation (1777), United States Constitution (1789), and the Bill of Rights (1791) are among the most important foundation charters that helped to shape American life during the eighteenth century. Along with these examples are countless other texts that have formed the written story of the nation. Additional landmark documents included within this display are copies of the Emancipation Proclamation (1863), 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution (1920), Social Security Act (1935), Brown v. Board of Education (1954), and the Civil Rights Act (1964).

Several other important records that have benefitted the United States of America over time have been collected by several different academic, governmental, public history, and other types of repositories including the Seton Hall University Libraries which preserve such significant information for the ages. The most prolific center of country-wide Milestone Documents are housed at the National Archives. Along with this Internet Site, a number of relevant print books that are shelved within this display located on the Second Floor of Walsh Library can be personally checked-out at the University Libraries Circulation Desk located on the same level as this exhibit.

Within the Seton Hall University Libraries Collection, there are various copies of these documents along with historical details found within our holdings catalog. This can be combined with other information-centered leads including our Introduction to U.S. History Research Guide which is available to our research community. In addition, we have specific volumes devoted to individual writings, but we also offer compilations and starter lists for your consideration found via our SHU Search, Book, and Database sites.

In addition, in honor of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution you can vote for your own favorite documents from History and/or Your Own Experience via the Ballot Box found within this display. We look forward to seeing what your choices are!

We welcome you to our information center in the near future, but in the meantime if you need detailed help through the University Libraries. You can book a research appointment here: Research Appointment Site

The Papacy – A University Libraries Display

In this year of transition, honoring the Canonical authority and of the Papacy is a constant among Roman Catholics worldwide. Beyond religious example alone, when it comes to learning more about the Holy Father and his impact on peace across the world. This is a subject area which has a centuries-old tradition. The University Libraries provides our research community with several print and electronic works related to each Pontiff from St. Peter forward over time.

In honor of the Papacy and its connection to Seton Hall and the world, the University Libraries has set up a display of various works connected to various Popes in history along with the most recent Bishops of Rome. Included in this view are works by Mr. Greg Tobin, an alumnus, former Seton Hall administrator and long-time friend of the University who has written extensively on the Papacy during his time on campus and through the present day.

We can also thank Our esteemed colleague Sister Mary John Bosco E Amakwe (Sister Bosco) has recently donated a copy of the book: The Roman Curia: History, Theology, and Organization, (Washington, D.C.: Georgetown University Press, 2024). by Monsignor Anthony Ekpo. This print volume is available at Walsh Library and is part of the Main Collection and can be located under the Library of Congress Call Number: BX1818.E36 2024. More information on this book and background on the donation can be found via the following link in gratitude to Sister Bosco.

The display is located on the Second Floor of Walsh Library and will be viewable during our Hours of Operation.

Honoring Pope Francis & His Legacy

In looking over Papal History this year, the death of Pope Francis (1936-2025) has touched the world through his words, deeds, and example. The University Libraries has several works by and about the late Holy Father which have documented his life and influence.

In addition, there are numerous texts that highlight the History of the Papacy and outline the procedures involved with the Conclave which is the event whereby a new successor as the Bishop of Rome is elected by the College of Cardinals.

Various resources can be found via the following resources . . .

Habemus Papam! Readings Related to Pope Leo XIV

In the wake of the death of Pope Francis, the last few months have seen a global celebration post-conclave with the election of Pope Leo XIV, who has made history as the first American Pope selected by College of Cardinals.

Even during the short time that Pope Leo XIV ascended to the throne of St. Peter, the former Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was also the subject of research and publications of various depth. He took his title in honor of Pope Leo XIII (1810-1903) who was an advocate for social justice and labor rights.

Leo XIV (SHU Search)

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost

Pope Leo XIII  (Books)

Pope Leo XIII (SHU Search)

American / United States Catholicism  (Books)

American / United States Catholicism (SHU Search)

For additional information please feel free to contact us via e-mail via the University Libraries Homepage.

Anti-Racist Readings

As members of an academic community, we strive to continually better ourselves and the world through learning and education. These books, recommended by academics and experts all around the world like Ibram X. Kendi, Director of the Antiracist Research and Policy Center at American University, may help you challenge your own internalized biases and understand the pervasiveness of racism in history that colors society to this day.

Read the University’s Statement Regarding Unrest Across the Nation.

Anti-Racism Readings in eBooks from the Library Collections

Fatal Invention: How Science, Politics, and Big Business Re-Create Race in the Twenty-First Century by Dorothy Roberts

How to be an Anti-Racist by Ibram X. Kendi

The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander

Locking Up Our Own: Crime and Punishment in Black America by James Forman

The Autobiography of Malcolm-X

We Have Not Been Moved: Resisting Racism and Militarism in 21st Century America

Black and Blue : the Origins and Consequences of Medical Racism

The Construction of Whiteness: An Interdisciplinary Analysis of Race Formation and The Meaning of a White Identity

White Women, Race Matters: The Social Construction of Whiteness by Ruth Frankenberg

“Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria?”: And Other Conversations About Race by Beverly Daniel Tatum

Books by or about Cardinal Newman in honor of his beatification

Books by or about Cardinal Newman in honor of his beatification

 

John Henry, Cardinal Newman. (1801 – 1890)

on Sunday, September  19th, 2010, during the Pope’s visit to Birmingham, England. We hope that you will find these books by or about Cardinal Newman  interesting & educational as well as enjoyable!

Newman was the great 19th century preacher and author of “The Idea of a University” and other classic works. He converted to Roman Catholicism in 1845. His 1865 Apologia pro vita sua was a defense of his conversion.

Minute Meditations from Cardinal Newman

Books will be on display near the Circulation Desk from September 17th, 2010 – September 24th, 2010

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