Black History Month is observed each February as, "an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history" (history.com). Learn more about and honor the unique, enduring accomplishments of black individuals and communities with these programs, materials, and online resources.
Upcoming Events
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February 12 - 400 Years of Black Women’s Magic with Dr. Lindsey Stewart - Online Author Talk from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Sourcing firsthand accounts the of enslaved, dispatches from the lore of Oshun, and the wisdom of beloved Black women writers, Stewart proves indisputably that conjure informs our lives in ways remarkable and ordinary.
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February 14 - Jazz Explorers with the National Jazz Museum in Harlem - Online Event from 12:00pm–12:45pm
Join us for this virtual field trip with The National Jazz Museum in Harlem and explore how musicians communicate! This 45-minute interactive program will include videos of great jazz musicians, call and response games, and a scat singing activity. -
February 25 - Social Justice Online Book Group discusses "Black AF History" by Michael Harriot - Online Event from 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
From acclaimed columnist and political commentator Michael Harriot, a searingly smart and bitingly hilarious retelling of American history that corrects the record and showcases the perspectives and experiences of Black Americans.
Reading Challenge
Readers of all ages can join the Black History Month reading challenge from February 1-28. Track your reading progress and complete activities in Beanstack to earn badges.
Books & Movies
Check out these recently released titles that share the story of Black history or browse our entire collection, including streaming movies on Kanopy.
A Child's Introduction to African American History
Fros, Fades, And Braids: A Brief History Of Black Hair In America
Black Arms To Hold You Up: A History Of Black Resistance
I'll Make Me A World: The 100-Year Journey Of Black History Month
Online Resources
- Black Freedom Struggle - Browse primary source documents from specific time periods in U.S. history marked by the opposition African Americans have faced on the road to freedom.
- GALE in Context: Biography, African Americans / Black Americans - View biographical information for hundreds of notable figures throughout history who identify as African American.
- GALE in Context: US History, African American Perspectives - Find information about notable people, places, and topics that have shaped black history.
- World Book Student: African Americans - Browse articles and interactive media to learn more about famous African Americans and their contributions to American history.
