Blog by the Black History 365 Team
Black History Month calls on remembering the past, acknowledging the challenges and triumphs of the present, and celebrating our Black communities everyday. We celebrate Black History Month at AC Library in February and honor Black history throughout the year through our events and our collection of books and materials.
Origins of Black History Month
In 1915, Carter G. Woodson, known as the ‘”father of Black history”’ was inspired by a Chicago exhibition that displayed the accomplishments of Africans. He went on to establish The Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in 1916 and the Journal of Negro History in 1916. Woodson was an educator, author, and historian who wanted future generations of Black students to be inspired by their history and achieve even greater accomplishments.
Discover more about the evolution of Black History Month through this interactive timeline created by the New York Times.
The 2024 theme is African Americans and The Arts. Annual themes are created by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. This month, you can learn about artistic movements created by Black writers, dancers, sculptors, musicians, painters, and poets. Discover the origins of the Harlem Renaissance, the Black Arts Movement, Hip Hop, Abolitionist literature, and Afrofuturism through the free book giveaways offered at all AC Library locations this month, while supplies last.
Celebrate Black History Month at AC Library!
Book Giveaway
In celebration of Black History Month, we’re providing a giveaway for all ages featuring materials that amplify Black voices. Visit any of AC Library locations and pick up a free book, activity booklet, and bookmark while supplies last!
AC Library Events
Participate in free events at these AC Library locations!
- James Hemings: Ghost in America’s Kitchen at Albany Library on Saturday, February 17
- Screening of “Who We Are” at Castro Valley Library on Sunday, February 18
- Teen Movie: The Color Purple at Dublin Library on Tuesday, February 20
- House of Samba Kids Drumming at Castro Valley Library on Tuesday, February 20
- Celebrating African American Artists: Build Your Own Mini Gallery at Castro Valley Library on Saturday, February 24
- Storytime with Author Ajuan Mance at Newark Library on Saturday, February 24
- Celebrating Black History Month with Dance at San Lorenzo Library on Saturday, February 24
- Blooms of History at Dublin Library on Monday, February 26
- Black History Month Bingo at San Lorenzo Library on Monday, February 26
Black History Month Events in Alameda County
Enjoy these free events that celebrate Black History Month in Alameda County!
- Celebrate Black History Month: Afrofuturism at Chabot Space and Science Center on Saturday, February 24
- Black Joy Parade in Downtown Oakland on Sunday, February 25
Booklists
Take a deeper dive into Black culture and personal experiences in the U.S. with this collection of recently published nonfiction titles.
Black history IS American history. This list features titles that highlight the important role African Americans have played in the shaping of the United States.
Each of the books in this list gives its own specific take on the value and importance of foodways, farming, and culinary traditions to Black culture. Explore delicious recipes, thought-provoking essays, vibrant photography, and food history within these titles.
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