Black History Month

Honoring Black Culture

Black History Month celebrates the achievements of Black Americans and the significant role and impact they have made on all facets of life and society throughout U.S. history. Dr. Carter G. Woodson - historian and founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History - established Black History Week in 1926. He chose February because Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln had birthdays in that month. Since 1976, every American president has designated February as Black History Month and issued proclamations endorsing an annual theme created by the ASALH organization.

We invite you to explore programs, recommended reading and a wide array of digital resources that honor the rich history, experiences, struggles and achievements of African Americans.

Events, Resources & More

Carl & Louis Stokes: From Projects to Politics

The Western Reserve Historical Society will share the story of the Cleveland brothers who created pathways, policies and programs that advanced civil rights, promoted urban issues and helped make the U.S. a more equitable nation.

Maple Heights Branch
Adults
Thursday, February 8 / 7 PM
Register

Brooklyn Branch
Adults
Tuesday, February 13 / 7:15 PM
Register

Berea Branch
Adults
Wednesday, February 28 / 2 PM
Register

Celebrate Quilts in Black History

Join us as we share Gullah culture through storytelling and art. Make a fabric stamped mini-quilt collage to take home.

Warrensville Heights Branch
Families
Saturday, February 24 / 2 PM
Register

MLK-inspired Art

Respond to Dr. King's words through art. Using a mixture of written text and line drawing, create art through active listening and mindfulness guided by the words and phrases that resonate with you.

Brook Park Branch
Adults
Monday, February 26 / 7 PM
Register

African-American History Online

This comprehensive historical resource from Infobase provides a wealth of information on everything from African-American leaders to important events, social movements and issues, the arts and more. Access historic videos and photos, maps, charts and timelines. Explore the Abolition Movement, the Underground Railroad, the Civil Rights Movement and more, brought to you by Cuyahoga County Public Library.

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Black History Month on Kanopy

Our partners at Kanopy have curated a collection of current and classic titles that highlight the history and heritage of Black Americans and delve deep into discussions about race and representation. All you need is a library card to stream these commercial-free films instantly on your computer, or download the free Kanopy app to watch on your smart TV, Roku or mobile device.

The free Kanopy app is available for Apple iOS, Android and Kindle HD/HDX.

Explore the collection

African American Heritage Online

This genealogy resource is exclusively devoted to African American family history research. Record collections include: Federal Census Records, marriage, military service, Registers of Slaves and Free(d) Persons of Color, Freedman's Bank and more. You can also connect with the AfriGeneas™ community, a social networking website. Includes a state-by-state resource guide.

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