About AALBC.com’s Logo

Original Logo (1997)

This logo was created when the website was first started in 1997; when AALBC.com was just a directory on another website we maintained.

The Millennium Logo (2001)

In January 2001, we introduced our logo for the new millennium. The design conveys the goal of the site in a simple and flexible form. The circle represents the sun, rising over an open book, shining the warm, life-giving light of discovery and renewal across the literature of African-American authors. Or it could just be someone reading a book.

Children’s Section Logo

This was created back in 2001 but was not used very much. With our increased emphasis on children’s literature, this logo represents our dedication to young readers.

Logo 2009 to 2023

This version of the AALBC.com logo was used from 2009 until 2023 and was designed by literary activist Ron Kavanaugh. While the circle continues to represent the sun rising over an open book, shining the warm, life-giving light of discovery and renewal across the literature of African-American authors, the addition of the colored pages reflects the diversity in our literature and readership. “Black Literature is for Everyone.”

Current Logo

This logo was introduced ahead of the 3rd major AALBC.com website overhaul, which I hope to complete* in February 2026. It represents the modern era of our platform.

*One never actually completes a website redesign 😉