Three essays are presented that discuss, in general terms, information that was collected in 1987-88 concerning the current status of black studies in the United States. The researchers were invited to survey selected black studies departments, programs, institutes, and centers judged to be representative of the structural diversity and programmatic scope of Afro-American and Africana studies across the country; to evaluate their present capacities and strengths; and to assess their future needs. Since the conversations on which this material is based were confidential it could not be reported in full; however, the essays contain substantial amounts of general information. The essays are entitled: "The Intellectual and Institutional Development of Africana Studies" (Robert L. Harris, Jr.); "Black Studies: An Overview" (Darlene Clark Hine); and "Black Studies in the Midwest" (Nellie McKay). (GLR)