The Legacy Library and Black Lantern Books is an effort to preserve the life long collections of texts that was founded Kwazi Nkrumah himself started collecting in the 1950’s. Near the end of his life Kwazi wanted to make his collection an accessible resource for future generations of  organizers seeking to expand their knowledge and  skills while working toward our liberation. After his sudden passing, with the effort from his son Sadik  his good friend and comrade Zach Ray by way of his immediate family, gained access to his book collection.

In an interest to support, Natalie Matos and Cipriano Belser stepped up to ensure that the books were not just safe but would one day become the Legacy Library. A bookstore became part of the plan when it was discussed that perhaps people would rather purchase some books and it could be a way to ensure that additional funds are brought in to pay for rent, maintenance etc. Thus, Black Lantern Books and the Legacy Library was born.