Besa Saka Historical Research & Preservation Council

Sherre Harrington, Director Emerita of Memorial Library at Berry College in Rome, Georgia, brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to her role on the Besa Saka Historical Research and Preservation Advisory Council. With a Master of Librarianship from the University of South Carolina’s College of Librarianship, Harrington has held prestigious roles in academia, including Librarian of the College at Amherst College and Director of the Stevenson Science and Engineering Library at Vanderbilt University. Her extensive experience in library leadership has shaped her commitment to using libraries as instruments for social responsibility, an ethos she championed as chair of the American Library Association’s Social Responsibilities Round Table.

During her tenure at Berry College, Harrington made significant contributions to advancing research resources and supporting local and family history studies. Most notably, she created the Shelton Family’s History at Possum Trot LibGuide for the Memorial Library, a resource that delves into the legacy of the Shelton family, their historic settlement, and the broader historical and cultural context of African American heritage in the region. This resource continues to be a valuable guide for researchers and descendants, ensuring the family’s legacy remains visible and accessible.

As a member of the Besa Saka Historical Research and Preservation Advisory Council, Harrington’s commitment to preserving history and ensuring equitable access to information greatly benefits the council’s mission. Her experience in developing research guides and her deep focus on historical topics align seamlessly with Besa Saka’s goals of preserving African American heritage, family legacies, and community history. Her expertise in research organization, Southern history, and social responsibility enhances the council’s efforts to document, preserve, and promote historical narratives that are often underrepresented.

Raised in the Lowcountry of South Carolina, Harrington combines her personal connection to Southern heritage with her professional background, enriching the council’s work in preserving and advancing the history and legacy of African American families and communities. Her strategic vision, dedication to inclusivity, and expertise in family and local history research instrumental in advancing Besa Saka’s mission and ensuring these stories remain accessible for generations to come.