Library Celebrates Black History Month

In its 98th year, we are proud to celebrate Black History Month, honoring the profound impact the Black community has in Baltimore County and beyond. This year's theme, African Americans and the Arts, as determined by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, highlights the past, present and future of Black arts, as well as the depth and range of African Americans' contributions to the arts.

“Black History Month affords us a unique opportunity to pause, grow in our knowledge and contemplate the many ways that African Americans have shaped the story of us as a nation and as people,” said Baltimore County Public Library CEO Sonia Alcántara-Antoine. “Join us in celebration at our branches, where we invite the community to engage by exploring books and movies that showcase Black achievements or participating in our diverse programs.” 

Evolution of Black History Month 

According to the Library of Congress, Black History Week was observed for the first time in 1926. It changed to a monthlong celebration in 1976, and it has been recognized by the President and Congress annually since 1996.

Celebrate With Us 

Throughout the month, we are offering a vibrant array of book displays, digital resources and dynamic programs, including these notable events: 
 
Celebrate Black History Month: Succotash Tales 

• Saturday, February 10, 2 p.m. (Woodlawn Branch) 
• Saturday, February 17, 10 a.m. (Parkville-Carney Branch) 
• Saturday, February 17, 2 p.m. (Rosedale Branch) 
• Saturday, February 24, 2 p.m. (Cockeysville Branch) 

Join storyteller Diane Macklin as she explores the richness of African American stories and tradition.  

The Emmart Pierpont Safe House on the Underground Railroad 
Saturday, February 10, 2 p.m. (Randallstown Branch) 

Learn about local landmark the Emmart Pierpont Safe House and its role along the Underground Railroad. Join Shirley and Jeff Supik, the owners of the Safe House, as they talk about local heroes, like the Emmart family, and their contribution to this community. 

Dialogs on Race: Exploring Slavery Reparations 
Tuesday, February 20, 6:30 p.m. (Virtual) 

Join Dr. Ray Winbush, research professor at Morgan State University, director of the Institute for Urban Research and member of the Maryland Reparations Commission, for a presentation and discussion about the merits of and arguments against introducing reparations to African Americans for U.S. slavery. 

Passion to Purpose: The African American Flag Story With Chloe and Kaylah Harvey 
Saturday, February 24, 2 p.m. (North Point Branch) 

Playwriting sisters Chloe and Kaylah Harvey discuss their journey in discovering their father’s legacy as they share the history and messages behind the African American flag that their parents created. Features a 10-minute excerpt from their new play, “20|02: The African American Flag Story.” 

If you’re in one of our branches, we invite you to pick up or create a button celebrating Black History Month. Head to the service desk for more information. 

Check Out Our Collection 

Cardholders can also celebrate the creative outlets of Black actors and musicians from the comfort of their homes. With hoopla, Kanopy and OverDrive, customers can enjoy books, comics, movies, music and shows from their phones or tablets. We also have a Virtual Book Display where you can place a book on hold.

A Yearlong Commitment 

Baltimore County Public Library is committed to amplifying the voices and stories of people of color through programs, services and collections not just during Black History Month, but throughout the year, as detailed in its anti-racism statement. 

"As we celebrate the rich contributions of African Americans, this month serves as a reminder of our ongoing journey to create a fairer and more equitable anti-racist society. Black History Month is not just a moment in time for our library system, but a catalyst for continued progress and positive change in our organization and community," said Alcántara-Antoine.