Black History Month

Black History Month at Evanston Public Library

Item 1 of 3

Celebrating Black History Month

Celebrate arts and culture this Black History Month with EPL Activities honoring the contributions of Black Americans. Black History Month is a time to step back and more specifically acknowledge and celebrate the centuries of broad and vibrant contributions Black Americans have made to culture, the arts, politics and social justice movements.

Patrons will have the opportunity this month to participate in many events and activities in honor of Black History Month as we pay tribute to those that have made a historical and current impact on the lives of individuals and communities. Attend an event, explore a book list and enjoy the many ways we celebrate the accomplishments of Black individuals in our country.

Programs

More about Black History Month

Antiracist Reads for Kids

Our librarians have brought together a wide range of social justice resources to use when talking to your children in these uncertain times.

Black History Month Movies on Kanopy

Celebrate Black History Month by streaming a wide variety of films on Kanopy.

Black Health Matters

Here are some books that look at medical racism, public health inequities, and various health issues.

eBooks: Black poets to celebrate

From the groundbreaking works of Lucille Clifton to contemporary voices like Danez Smith and Jasmine Mans, these poets are worth knowing.

More about Black History Month

EPL & MENA Present: Middle East and North Africa

This is the 10th year of "EPL & MENA Present" partnership between EPL and Northwestern University's Middle East and North Africa department

Horror & Thriller eBooks by Black Authors

You'll be on the edge of your seat with these propulsive and heart-pounding books by Black authors.

Notable Books on African & African American History

This collection highlights titles that bridge African and African-American history, examining slavery’s legacy and its ongoing impact.

Black Health Matters

Here are some books that look at medical racism, public health inequities, and various health issues.

Permanent Sculpture

Richard Hunt, Chicago Artist

Perched high upon the facade of our main branch sits a stainless steel sculpture by artist Richard Hunt (American b.1935) titled Bookends. This abstract piece of art represents the evolution of the storage of information in western culture.

Artist Richard Hunt, a Chicago Native and graduate of the Art Institute of Chicago, was a prize-winning artist who dedicated over 70 years of his life to making art. Hunt rose above challenges faced by Black artists, holding over 170 exhibitions and being represented in over 100 museums around the world. Hunt would also create over 160 commissioned pieces of art, more than any other artist.

Hunt was a desegregation activist and a visionary, using his experiences to shape his work. Hunt remarked on his art: "Sculpture is not a self-declaration but a voice of and for my people. Over all a rich fabric; under all about the dynamism of the African American people."

Visiting Sculpture

Jean Baptiste Du Sable

Outside of the Main Branch of EPL sits an 8-foot bronze bust of Jean Baptiste Du Sable who is known as the first permanent non-native settler of Chicago. Baptiste was of African descent and settled in Chicago along the Chicago River near Lake Michigan after developing a trade network. It took time for Du Sable to gain the notoriety and credit he deserved. The artist, sculptor and former Evanston resident Erik Blome, feels strongly about creating art that accurately tells the story of Black History.

MLK Day of Service

Did you know that Martin Luther King Jr. Day is the National Day of Service? If you’re looking for a meaningful community service opportunity to make change and give back, check out the Evanston Public Library.

The day is full of volunteer opportunities, crafts and activities and this year featured a moving re-enactment of a part of Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech by Rev. Eddie Reeves.

Black History Month- The Arts

Books from the last few years that celebrate and illuminate Black artists from various fields.

Space Is Black: Science Fiction & Fantasy by Black Authors

Black authors are an important part of the science fiction and fantasy landscape! Check out some of these classics and newer titles.

Audiobooks for Black History Month - Memoirs, Essays, Poetry

Celebrate Black excellence by checking out these incredible nonfiction and poetry collections.

Romance Audiobooks for Black History Month

Get in the mood for love with these sweet and spicy romance titles from Black authors. All synopses are from the publisher.
Back to Top