When it was established in 1997, the National Center for the Study of Civil Rights and African-American Culture was located in the University library. Since its origin it has had more than 20,000 visitors from across the United States and from around the world. In 2001, the National Center expanded from the library to its current site to Carter Hill Road. At the Carter Hill site, the National Center  hosts programs, displays collections, and presents a number of rotating exhibits. Located on the historic Alabama State University campus, the National Center continues serving as a gathering place for guest lectures, events for all ages, and unique opportunities to view the Center’s vast art collection.