The Institue of Global Cultural Studies (IGCS) at Binghamton University developed multi-disciplinary approaches to the study of culture and cultural influences across societies in the contemporary world. The Institute of Global Cultural Studies records document the research published and events held by the IGCS, as well as their administrative, financial, and reporting functions.

Ali Al'amin Mazrui (1933-2014), was a Kenyan academic, author, and professor in African and Islamic Studies. Mazrui served as Albert Schweitzer Professor in the Humanities, as well as creator and director of the Institute of Global Cultural Studies at Binghamton University from 1991 until his death in 2014. The Ali A. Mazrui papers document Mazrui's academic work and public response to his ideas.