Celebrate Black History Month
"I always felt, if I could get to a Library, I'll be OK." - Maya Angelou
Join the Metropolitan Library System during the month of February as we honor the rich history and contributions of Black Americans with engaging events for all ages. Our libraries are bringing history to life with unique programs and take-home kits.
Featured Events
African American Experiences
Saturday, February 7 at 11 a.m.
Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library (300 Park Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73102)
Phillip Tolbert, retired librarian from the Metropolitan Library System, will present an overview of the many accomplishments of African-Americans throughout the history of America. This presentation will feature accomplishments in medicine, science, literature, music, military, sports, etc. As well as support and encouragement from other races as part of the overall African-American journey.
Please click the button below for more details and to RSVP.
Celebrating Ralph Ellison: "More Than Invisible"
- Saturday, February 21 at 2 p.m., Ralph Ellison Library (2000 NE 23rd St., Oklahoma City, OK 73111)
- Saturday, February 27 at 10 a.m., Edmond Library (10 S Boulevard, Edmond, OK 73034)
- Sunday, February 28 at 2 p.m., Patience S. Latting Northwest Library (5600 NW 122nd St., Oklahoma City, OK 73142)
Join author Quraysh Ali Lansana as he walks children through the life story of Ralph Ellison, an Oklahoma City native and important American writer.
This engaging program geared for 3rd-6th graders will walk us through Ellison’s life, from his childhood in Oklahoma City to his major accomplishments, with photographs, anecdotes and compelling stories.
Please click the buttons below for more details.
Before Greensboro: Why the 1958 Katz Sit-In Matters Nationally with Dr. Karlos Hill
Saturday, February 21 at 2 p.m.
Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library (300 Park Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73102)
Join us for a powerful discussion as Dr. Karlos K. Hill tells the story of the transformative sit-in movement in Oklahoma City through the words and reflections of the 13 original sit-inners. This presentation will serve not only as a historical exploration but as an homage to those courageous individuals and to the creation of the Clara Luper Sit-in Plaza that recognizes their legacy.
Please click the button below for more details and to RSVP.
Oklahoma Black Communities Symposium
Saturday, February 28 at Noon, Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library (300 Park Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73102)
Join us for presentations focused on Sandtown, Walnut Grove, Gower Cemetery, Red Bird, and other Black towns, enclaves, and organizations offering attendees opportunities to learn and connect with others engaged in preservation and scholarship. The keynote address, “From Tulsa to Beyond: African American Genealogy in Oklahoma,” will be presented by professional genealogist Nicka Sewell-Smith.
Please click the button below for more details and to RSVP.
Calendar of Events
The New York Times 1619 Project Magazine Giveaway
From the archives - Developed by Nikole Hannah-Jones, writers from The New York Times, and The New York Times Magazine in August 2019, this magazine focused on subjects of slavery and the founding of the United States.
Take Home Kit: Black History Month Knowledge Quizzes
Go on a quest for knowledge with Ralph Ellison's annual trivia quiz! The quizzes are take-home kits, so there's plenty of time to test your knowledge. You will get the questions and the answers along with a prize.
Secret Underground Railroad Quilt Patterns Passive Program and Display
Check out our Underground Railroad Quilts passive program and display to learn about the secret quilt codes that guided freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad. Then, color your own quilt block and add it to our community quilt.
Scavenger Hunt A Century of Black History Commemorations: Inventors
We are celebrating 100 years since Dr. Carter G. Woodson established Black History Week with a scavenger hunt all month long. Each week will be based on a different category. This week is Black Inventors.
Explore this passive program and display in our teen section to learn a little about the history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and about how they have built generations of leaders.
February Creative Writing Chapbook
Have you always wanted to explore creative writing but never had the chance? Pick up one of our creative writing chapbooks filled with creative writing exercises meant to strengthen your creative muscles!
Have you always wanted to explore creative writing but never had the chance? Are you looking for a supportive community of writers with whom you can share your work?
Black History Month: Cowrie Shell Jewelry Kit
Celebrate Black History Month by creating your very own cowrie shell jewelry. Cowrie shells are an important part of West African culture and still hold a place in the art and fashion of Black diaspora today.
Disclaimer(s)
The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.
Warning: Kit contains small parts that could represent a choking hazard. It is not intended for children under 3. It is encouraged that an adult supervise children while using this Metropolitan Library System Take & Make Bag.
Black History Collection
Online Resources and Databases
Downloads
These downloadable coloring pages were created by the Ralph Ellison Library. Each postcard, bookmark, and coloring page features an influential and inspiring African American, plus a bit of history on each individual. Use markers, crayons, or colored pencils to decorate the front of your post card and practice your writing and addressing skills on the back.