The San José Public Library is proud to partner with the African American Community Service Agency (AACSA) to honor the legacy of Inez Jackson through a special-edition library card inspired by the newly unveiled mural celebrating her life and contributions to the community.
Inez Jackson was a pioneering civil rights leader, educator, and community advocate whose work helped shape San José for generations. As the city's first Black postal clerk, a leader within the local NAACP and YWCA chapters, and the founder of AACSA - she dedicated her life to expanding opportunity, advancing equity, and empowering community members.
The library card celebrates the unveiling of Jackson's Mural at the AACSA Center, created by artist Ian Young of Quiet Giant Design and in partnership with Local Color. The new card honors both her legacy and the continued partnership between AACSA and the San José Public Library through its Bridge Library, which provides community members with access to free library resources, services, and programs within the center.
The commemorative card will be available at AACSA's 45th Annual Juneteenth in the Streets Festival this Saturday, June 13, at the library booth and at SJPL’s Bridge Library, located within AACSA (while supplies last).
To learn more about Bridge Library and its programs, services, and collections, visit www.sjpl.org/bridge
Citations
California Room Clipping Files. San Jose: Jackson, Inez
Michalene Busico, "The Visible Woman." San Jose Mercury News, January 15, 1989
Wes Peyton. "Inez Jackson's Tenacious Fight for Equal Rights." San Jose Mercury, October 10, 1979