Each volume of Contemporary Black Biography contains at least 65 full-length biographies written in an easy-to-follow prose style, ranging from 2 to 4 pages each. Arranged alphabetically, entries are divided by subheads for quick scanning. Sections cover:

Portrait (as available) Date and place of birth Educational background Address Career data Memberships Awards received Detailed prose essay Complete source citations

Contemporary Black Biography is not limited to coverage of only notable black Americans, nor is it restricted by a manufactured definition of contemporary. Its multinational coverage spans this century and includes rising personalities as well as groundbreakers and newsmakers in a variety of fields.

Contemporary Black Biography includes four cumulative indexes:

Nationality: While concentrating on U.S. figures, this title also covers important personalities from other countries. Find them listed by nationality here. Occupation: Editors focus on biographies not typically found in other sources – an eclectic blend of well-known and well-respected educators, physicians, politicians, activists, writers, clergy, military leaders, attorneys, as well as members of the more glamorous occupations such as athletes, fashion models and actors Subjects: Events, places and organizations 0