The Alachua County Library District Celebrates Black History Month with Events and Programs for Everyone

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Each February since 1976 the United States commemorates Black History Month. During this month, America celebrates the invaluable contributions that the African-American community has made to the culture and history of our nation. The Alachua County Library District features educational displays, events and programs including the 23rd Annual National African American Read-in that will be featured at various branches across the county during this month-long celebration.

Everyone is invited to join more than one million readers nationally to explore and learn about African American authors and African American literature. Books, movies and interactive programs are available at all 12 locations and within the two bookmobiles covering the county. The line-up of choices includes read-ins, local discussions with Black community elders, historical presentations, movies, dancing, stories, art and social media interaction.

Here are some samples –
An evening with Javaka Steptoe: artist and Illustrator Steptoe will discuss his artistic style, inspirations and work on February 23, at 6:30 p.m. at Headquarters. All ages are welcome.

Black History: Outside the Book - enjoy dancing, singing, storytelling, and other reflections of our rich and diverse heritage on February 12, at 1:30 p.m. at Headquarters. All ages are welcome.

Facebook - share “Your Dream” with the library on Facebook and at the third floor alcove display at Headquarters. Patrons are invited to write about their dreams and what they may be doing to work toward making those dreams a reality. Results will be posted in a blog on the library website.

Celebrating Black History with the Spirit Dancers - the Jordan Glen Spirit Dancers will perform on February 12, at 3:30 p.m. at the Archer Branch. All ages are welcome.

Local African American History - community Black elders will discuss Newberry’s history on February 8, at 6 p.m. at the Newberry Branch. All ages are welcome.

Wild Buffalos, Wild Wheels - program presented by the Jacksonville Florida Buffalo Soldiers     motorcycle club on February 16, at 5 p.m. at the Library Partnership. All ages are welcome.

African American Movie Marathon plays on February 22, at 11 a.m. at the Library Partnership. All ages are welcome.

History of Local Plantations presented by Dr. Patricia Hilliard-Nunn, Adjunct Professor of the African American Studies Program at the University of Florida, on February 4, at 3 p.m. at the Tower Road Branch. Suggested for adults and seniors.

African-American Read-In - teen volunteers will be reading materials in the children’s area selected from works authored by African Americans in an ongoing Read-In, February 19, at 1 p.m. at the Tower Road Branch. All ages are welcome.

Visit your library during Black History Month for special programs across the District. A full, updated calendar of events is available at http://www.aclib.us/events or for additional information, please contact Nickie Kortus, nkortus@aclib.us, or (352) 334-3909.