The University of Michigan William L. Clements Library has acquired one of the most important American books of the late eighteenth century–the first American edition of the earliest book of poetry published by an African American author. Phillis Wheatley Peters’ publication, Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral is currently on display at the Clements Library as part of the exhibit “The Art of Resistance in Early America.”

The Clements Library has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise the $42,000 for acquiring this book. Purchasing historic materials often requires decisions to be made quickly, and the fundraising to happen after the item is at the Clements. “Through crowdfunding, we hope anyone in the world passionate about history can have a hand in supporting this exciting acquisition,” says Angela Oonk, director of development at the Clements Library.

“Acquiring, preserving, and sharing original primary sources for research and display is the core of the Clements’ mission. The Clements Library has always relied on financial contributions from supporters to help us acquire materials for the collections,” Erickson said. “This support is more important than ever as we continue to build holdings that will make U-M a worldwide destination for research in early American history and culture.”