Literature departments and libraries at universities around the world can now subscribe to the complete digital archive and ongoing issues of Obsidian through the Exact Editions platform. The archive, which dates back to 1975, is accessible across web, iOS and Android devices.
Obsidian: Literature & Arts in the African Diaspora cultivates Black imagination and innovation, supporting Black, African, and African Diaspora creatives globally. Founded in 1975 at SUNY Fredonia by the poet, scholar, and legendary champion of African American culture Alvin Aubert, it was originally titled Obsidian: Black Literature in Review. Its current institutional home is Illinois State University. Dr Diane Zoksy, retired dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Illinois State University, remarked: “Obsidian is dedicated to the work of peoples and ideas that have migrated across the globe from Africa and meets an important need in our society.”
The archive hosted on the Exact Editions platform is comprised not only of interactive linked content pages but also includes a powerful search function that allows references to keywords and topics to be found in individual issues or across the full archive at the click of a button. Institutional subscriptions offer unlimited IP-authenticated access for libraries as well as usage reports for librarians and MARC records.
Digital subscriptions to Obsidian are available in the Exact Edition shops below:
Institutional digital subscriptions
Individual digital subscriptions
Obsidian Managing Editor, Tara Reeser, commented: “The back issues have translated fantastically to this digital format and we are very pleased with how easily navigable the archive is. Exact Editions ’connections with libraries, especially those at universities, will allow us to reach new audiences and expand our reach worldwide.”
Managing Director of Exact Editions, Daryl Rayner, said: “Obsidian is an insightful addition to the variety of cultural titles available on the platform. The title’s focus on art and literature from the African diaspora will make it a popular resource with students and academics alike in the field.”