The Louisville Free Public Library celebrates Black History Month with programs throughout February
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (January 26, 2023) – This February, the Louisville Free Public Library (LFPL) is offering more than thirty free programs in celebration of Black History Month. Programs include book discussions, film screenings, history talks, storytimes, and more, designed to inform, inspire, and engage audiences of all ages.
Coming up at the Main Library –
This month, the Main Library (301 York Street) plays host to a number of professors and local experts exploring aspects of Black history too often overlooked. On Saturday, February 4 (2 p.m.), members of the Chickasaw Book Project will share their stories about life in the Chickasaw neighborhood during the 1940s-70s. Sponsored by Louisville Public Media, this panel discussion will be led by WAVE-TV’s Dawne Gee. Register online at LFPL.org/Authors.
On Monday, February 6, (6:30 p.m.), UofL’s Dr. Thomas Wayne Edison will present BLatinX: Celebrating Puerto Rico’s African Heritage. The free talk will highlight the history, music, and poetry that reflect Puerto Rico’s communities of African heritage. Register online at LFPL.org/MyLibraryU or call (502) 574-1623.
Join local author Jermaine Fowler, host of the top-rated history podcast The Humanity Archive, on Tuesday, February 28 (7 p.m.) for the launch of his new book of the same name. This sweeping survey of Black history challenges dominant perspectives and goes outside the textbooks to reveal America’s hidden history. Presented in partnership with Carmichael’s Bookstore, this program is free. Register online at LFPL.org/Authors.
February also marks the return of the Black History Month Film Series. Presented in partnership with UofL Health Sciences Center Office of Diversity and Inclusion and Lean Into Louisville, the series is held every Sunday in February at the Main Library and features thought-provoking and award-winning films, followed by discussions with university professors and local experts. The 2023 lineup features the film Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am, Sundance Film Festival-winning documentary Aftershock, 2022 biographical drama Till, and acclaimed 2021 documentary My Name is Pauli Murray (sponsored by Louisville Public Media). To register for this free series, visit LFPL.org/BHFilms.
Coming to a branch library near you –
Black History Month at the library has something for all ages, with special storytimes, craft sessions, and showcases for children and teens as well. The popular Black Superhero Showcase, sponsored by Louisville Public Media, makes its return to the Portland Library on Saturday, February 11, at 2 p.m. And members of the Kentucky Buffalo Soldiers Chapter stop by the Southwest, South Central, Iroquois, Shawnee, and Newburg libraries during the month to discuss the history of the all black unit of the 9th & 10th Calvary and how it has played a significant role in today’s military.
For the complete list of LFPL’s Black History Month programs, please visit LFPL.org/BlackHistory.
