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We are hosting a Black History Celebration throughout February. The theme for this year is "African American Arts: Inspiring, Impacting, and Influencing Every Generation." Events include performances by the Black Rep, a jazz concert, a gospel celebration, author events, dance workshops, and more.

 

All Month
Exhibition: #1 in Civil Rights
Presented by Missouri History Museum
This exhibit explores civil rights history in St. Louis from the 1850s through the 2010s, examining a number of historic Supreme Court cases such as Scott v. Sandford and Shelley v. Kraemer, historic movements and moments including the March on Washington and Ferguson, and highlights important local figures like Percy Green and Bill Clay. 
Adults. 


Saturday, February 1, 10:00 a.m.
African Percussion
Presented by Freedom Arts and Education Center
Explore the diverse percussion traditions of Africa and learn the techniques and rhythms of authentic instruments like the djembe, caxixi, agogo and kalimba.
Ages 8-16. Registration required


Saturday, February 15, 10:00 a.m.
Black History Month Feature Film: “Black Panther”
Enjoy a movie on our big screen. MPAA rating: PG-13. Running time: 135 min. 
Adults and teens.


Wednesday, February 19, 6:00 p.m.
Ice Cream Social 
Enjoy an ice cream social to commemorate Alfred L. Cralle, the inventor of the ice cream scoop.
All ages. 


Tuesday, February 25, 10:00 a.m.
Disco Boogie
Boogie down at this dance party celebrating Black musicians from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s.
Ages 0-5. Registration recommended.

 

 

Tuesday, January 14, 6:30 p.m. 
Jewell Parker Rhodes, “Will’s Race for Home”
Presented by the Reading Garden Series for Young Audiences


Thursday, January 23, 7:00 p.m.
Lee Hawkins, “I Am Nobody’s Slave: How Uncovering My Family’s History Set Me Free”
Presented by the Missouri History Museum
Adults. 


All Month
Black History Month Author Scavenger Hunt
Celebrate Black History Month with a scavenger hunt for famous Black authors and illustrators. 
All ages.


Thursday, February 6, 6:00 p.m.
Sip & Celebrate: Black History Month Mug & Air Freshener Workshop 
Honor Black History Month by creating custom sublimation mugs and air fresheners.
Ages 12-18.


Thursday, February 6, 7:00 p.m. 
Victoria Christopher Murray, “Harlem Rhapsody”
Adults. 


Saturday, February 8, 10:00 a.m.
Jabari Dreams of Freedom
Presented by The Black Rep
Follow Jabari through a world of rap and sketch as he dreams of Civil Rights leaders and role models that help him ace his social studies test at school. 
Children and families.


Wednesday, February 12, 6:00 p.m.
Marvelous Mosaics
Create a paper mosaic in the style of artist Alma Thomas. 
Ages 7-11. Registration required.


Thursday, February 13, 7:00 p.m.
Walter Mosley, "Been Wrong So Long It Feels Right: A King Oliver Novel"
Adults. 


Tuesday, February 18, 7:00 p.m.
Judith Giesberg, “Last Seen: The Enduring Search by Formerly Enslaved People to Find Their Lost Families”
Presented by the Emerson History & Genealogy Center
Adults. 


Wednesday, February, 19, 6:00 p.m. 
Earnest Hart, Jr.: Martial Arts, Leadership and Awareness
Earnest Hart, Jr., a martial artist professional, actor, self defense and awareness guru, will discuss his life and career, and his work in self awareness and leadership for children and adults.
Teens and adults. Creative Lab (2nd Floor).


Thursday, February 20, 7:00 p.m. 
Orv Kimbrough, “Twice Over a Man: A Fierce Memoir of an Orphan Boy Who Doggedly Determined a Finer Life”
Adults. 


Friday, February 21, 7:00 p.m. 
Jennifer Jones, “Becoming Spectacular: The Rhythm of Resilience from the First African American Rockette”
Adults. 


Saturday, February 22, 1:00 p.m.
Gift of Gospel
Enjoy an inspirational musical experience with performances by The Simmons Sisters, mime dancer Quincy Fielding III, The Duncans and more. Pastor Shaun Williams will serve as the master of ceremonies.
All ages. 


Tuesday, February 25, 6:00 p.m.
Collage Quilts
Create a Gee’s Bend-inspired paper collage quilt. 
Ages 6-14.


Wednesday, February 26, 10:00 a.m.
Story Time: African American Authors and Illustrators
Stories in this special story time will highlight African American authors and artists. 
Ages 2-5. 


Wednesday, February 26, 6:00 p.m.
Blues Legends Live: Celebrating the Lives and Music of Blues Greats
Using library resources, we will delve into the rich history of the blues genre, tracing its origins from African roots to the Mississippi Delta and beyond. 
Adults. Registration required.

 

All Month
Black History Month Author Scavenger Hunt
Celebrate Black History Month with a scavenger hunt for famous Black authors.
All ages.


Friday, February 7, 2:00 p.m. 
Ice Cream Social 
Enjoy an ice cream social to commemorate Alfred L. Cralle, the inventor of the ice cream scoop. 
All ages. Registration required.


Saturday, February 15, 2:00 p.m. 
Anansi the Spider Stories
Presented by Bobby Norfolk
Hear stories about a trickster who teaches cultural values and traditions from African and Caribbean folklore. 
Children and families.


Tuesday, February 18, 10:00 a.m.
Disco Boogie
Boogie down at this dance party celebrating Black musicians from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s.
Ages 0-5. Registration recommended.


Tuesday, February 25, 2:00 p.m.
Black History Month Feature Film: “Loving”
Enjoy a movie on our big screen. MPAA rating: PG-13. Running time: 123 min. 
Adults and teens.
 

 

 

All Month
Black History Month Author Scavenger Hunt
Celebrate Black History Month with a scavenger hunt for famous Black authors. 
All ages.


Saturday, February 8, 2:00 p.m.
Button It Up!
Design a button in the style of famous Black artists using a variety of supplies.
Ages 12-17.


Wednesday, February 12, 10:00 a.m.
Black Stories and Celebrations
Stories, songs and activities to help develop early literacy skills. Stories will highlight Black authors and artists. 
Ages 2-5.


Friday, February 14, 10:00 a.m.
Disco Boogie
Boogie down at this dance party celebrating Black musicians from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s.
Ages 0-5.


Tuesday, February 18, 6:30 p.m.
Salt Painted African Masks
Choose and create your own colorful African tribal mask masterpiece with salt and watercolors. 
Ages 6-14. Registration required. Meeting Room 1.


Thursday, February 20, 10:00 a.m.
Baby Art Crawl: Kehinde, Alma and Baby Too!
Paint and scribble with other baby friends to create a beautiful mess in styles of Black artists Kehinde Wiley and Alma Thomas. Be prepared for messy fun with a towel and extra clothes for both babies and adults. 
Ages 6-18 months. Registration required.


Thursday, February 20, 6:00 p.m.
Jabari Dreams of Freedom
Presented by The Black Rep
Follow Jabari through a world of rap and sketch as he dreams of Civil Rights leaders and role models that help him ace his social studies test at school. 
Children and families.


Saturday, February 22, 2:00 p.m.
Silent Soul Sessions
Join the quietest party that's actually the loudest in your ears! Immerse yourself in handpicked cookout classics and Hip-Hop/R&B gems while grooving along to the different stations. Light refreshments provided. 
Adults.


Wednesday, February 26, 6:00 p.m.
Get GIFfy with it!
Whether you pronounce it GIF or JIF, create your own flipbook animations inspired by Lisa Gelobter and her pioneering work creating the software for animated image files we use every day. 
Ages 8-12.


Friday, February 28, 5:30 p.m.
Teen After Hours: “Remember the Titans”
Bring blankets from home and engage in a viewing of “Remember the Titans.” MPAA rating: PG. Running time: 113 min. Refreshments provided. 
Ages 15-17.
 

 

 

All Month
African American Hero Scavenger Hunt
Celebrate Black History Month with a scavenger hunt for African American heroes in the Children’s Area. 
All ages.


Saturday, February 8, 2:00 p.m.
Family Feature Film: “Princess and the Frog”
Enjoy a movie on our big screen. MPAA rating: G. Running time: 98 min.
All ages.


Tuesday, February 11, 10:00 a.m.
Baby Disco
Celebrate Black musicians from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s while we dance and play. 
Ages 0-36 months.


Thursday, February 13, 4:30 p.m.
African Percussion
Presented by Freedom Arts and Education Center
Explore the diverse percussion traditions of Africa and learn the techniques and rhythms of authentic instruments like the djembe, caxixi, agogo and kalimba. 
Ages 8-16. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 18, 5:00 p.m.
Paint Like Jean-Michel Basquiat
Learn how to create a mixed-media work of art in the style of Jean-Michel Basquait. No prior art experience needed.
Teens and adults. Registration required

 

 

 

All Month
Black History Month Seek-and-Find Challenge
Each week we will hide different Black History heroes in the fields of literature, the arts and more. Find them all and win a small prize.
Ages 3-10.


Saturday, February 1, 1:00 p.m.
“WordUp” Poetry and Comedy Showcase
Join Dacia Polk, owner of St. Louis WordUp Entertainment, as she showcases local poets and comedians. 
Adults.


Wednesday, February 5, 6:00 p.m.
DIY Spa Night
Learn about Madam C.J. Walker and make your own nourishing hair conditioner. All ingredients provided.
Ages 12-17. Registration required.


Saturday, February 8, 1:00 p.m.
Black Superhero Fest
Enjoy comics, crafts and games to celebrate Black superheroes in comics.
Ages 6-12. Registration required.


Monday, February 10, 2:00 p.m.
Arctic Adventure Challenge
Learn about Arctic explorer Matthew Hansen and see if you could survive a trek to the North Pole. 
Ages 6-12. Registration required.


Friday, February 14, 7:00 p.m.
Set the Night to Music
Spend Valentine's Day in a romantic setting at the library, enjoying a performance by The Remedy.
Adults. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 18. 6:00 p.m.
Teen Paint Night: Clementine Hunter’s Zinnias
Work step-by-step to create a beautiful work of art inspired by Clementine Hunter’s zinnia paintings.
Ages 12-17. Registration required.


Wednesday, February 19, 6:00 p.m.
Sweet Success: A Panel Discussion with Black Entrepreneurs in the Dessert Industry
Join us for an insightful conversation with successful local Black entrepreneurs in the dessert industry as they share their unique opportunities and challenges. Discover how they've turned their passions into thriving businesses, and get inspired by their journeys to ignite your own entrepreneurial success.
Adults. Registration requested.


Thursday, February 20, 6:00 p.m.
Adinkra Art
Learn about the West African symbols, then print your own to take home.
Ages 8-17. Registration required.


Monday, February 24, 10:00 a.m.
All Aboard!
Celebrate “Freight Train” author and illustrator Donald Crews with stories, songs and a “things that go” play time.
Ages 2-5. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 25, 3:00 p.m. 
Echoes of 1917: The History of the East St. Louis Race Massacre
Presented by Cicely Hunter, Public Historian at the Missouri Historical Society
Explore the pivotal racial violence of the East St. Louis Race Massacre, its broader civil rights implications and its lasting impact on advocacy and activism. 
Adults. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 25, 6:00 p.m. 
African Percussion
Presented by Freedom Arts and Education
Explore the diverse percussion traditions of Africa and learn the techniques and rhythms of authentic instruments like the djembe, caxixi, agogo and kalimba. 
Ages 8-16. Registration required.


Friday, February 28, 10:00 a.m.
Baby Disco
Celebrate Black musicians from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s while we dance and play.
Ages 0-36 months.

 

 

 

Friday, February 7, 10:00 a.m.
Disco Boogie
Boogie down at this dance party celebrating Black musicians from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s.
Ages 0-5. Registration recommended.


Monday, February 10, 6:30 p.m.
Junior Makers: Little Melba’s Big Trombone
Learn about musician Melba Doretta Liston through a read-aloud of “Little Melba and Her Big Trombone” by Katheryn Russell-Brown, then make your own musical instrument to parade around the library.
Ages 5-8. Registration required.


Thursday, February 13, 5:30 p.m.
Black Lives Matter Buttons
Create your own Black Lives Matter button to take home. 
All ages.


Saturday, February 15, 2:00 p.m.
African Percussion
Presented by Freedom Arts and Education
Explore the diverse percussion traditions of Africa and learn the techniques and rhythms of authentic instruments like the djembe, caxixi, agogo and kalimba.
Ages 8-16. Registration required.


Monday, February 24, 6:30 p.m.
Alma’s Abstract Art
Learn about the life and art of Alma Woodsey Thomas, then create your own collage in the style of her painting.
Ages 6-11.


Thursday, February 27, 6:00 p.m.
Kimmy Cantrell Abstract Faces
Create a decorative, abstract face using cardboard and paint. Inspired by the artwork of Kimmy Cantrell. All supplies included.
Adults. Registration required.
 

 

 

Wednesday, February 5, 6:00 p.m.
Abstract Art With Alma
Learn about artist Alma Thomas and create artwork inspired by her abstract style. 
Ages 12-17. Registration required.


Saturday, February 15, 2:00 p.m.
Art Like Margaret Burroughs
Create your own art work like Margaret Burroughs with scratch-off paper.
Adults. Registration recommended.


Saturday, February 22, 10:00 a.m.
Anansi the Spider Stories
Presented by Bobby Norfolk
Hear stories about a trickster who teaches cultural values and traditions from African and Caribbean folklore.
Children and families.


Monday, February 24, 5:30 p.m.
Jazzy Creations
Learn about the history of jazz, then paint a masterpiece while listening to some great music.
Ages 6-10. Registration required.


Friday, February 28, 2:00 p.m.
Baby Disco
Celebrate Black musicians from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s while we dance and play.
Ages 0-36 months.

 

 

 

All Month
Black History Through the Ages Timeline
From the ancient era to now, walk through a timeline of remarkable African and Black historical figures who carved their way into history. 
All ages.


Tuesday, February 4, 4:30 p.m. 
Anansi the Spider Stories
Presented by Bobby Norfolk
Hear stories about a trickster who teaches cultural values and traditions from African and Caribbean folklore. 
Children and families.


Wednesday, February 5, 10:00 a.m.
Baby Disco
Celebrate Black musicians from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s while we dance and play. 
Ages 0-36 months.


Tuesday, February 11, 2:00 p.m. 
Threads of Freedom: The Life of Elizabeth Keckley
Presented by Cicely Hunter, Public Historian at the Missouri Historical Society
Join us for an in-depth discussion of Elizabeth Keckley's incredible journey from slavery to White House dressmaker. 
Adults. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 11, 6:00 p.m.
Paint Night
Paint a Black History Month inspired painting.
Adults. Registration required.


Wednesday, February 12, 4:00 p.m.
All Aboard!
Learn about Elijah McCoy during this special train-themed story time with snacks and activities.
Ages 3-8. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 18, 6:00 p.m. 
Black Love at the Library
Celebrate Black love at the library this Valentine’s Day with a movie and love-themed snacks and decor. 
Adults. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 25, 6:00 p.m.
African Jewelry Making
Explore your creative side by creating bracelets and necklaces.
Adults. Registration required.

 

All Month
Art Showcase
Observe original artwork from local Black artists.


Saturday, February 1, 1:00 p.m.
Story Time: African American Authors and Illustrators
Stories, songs and other fun activities to help develop early literacy skills. Stories will highlight Black authors and artists. 
Ages 2-5.


Wednesday, February 5, 6:00 p.m.
Game Night 101: Hot Sauce Challenge
Test your heat tolerance and sample a variety of fiery Black-owned sauces from mild to scorching. 
Teens and adults. Registration required.


Thursday, February 6, 6:00 p.m. 
Beginning African American Genealogy
Do you want to research your African American family but don’t know where to start? This class will teach you the basics of genealogical research and introduce you to resources for African American genealogy that are available through the St. Louis County Library. 
Adults. Registration required.


Saturday, February 8, 2:00 p.m.
Jabari Dreams of Freedom
Presented by The Black Rep
Follow Jabari through a world of rap and sketch as he dreams of Civil Rights leaders and role models that help him ace his social studies test at school.
Children and families.


Tuesday, February 11, 5:00 p.m.
Collage Like Romare Bearden
Learn about Harlem artist Romare Bearden and be inspired to create a collage in his style.
All ages.


CANCELED - Wednesday, February 12, 6:00 p.m.
“What She Said” 
Presented by The Black Rep
“What She Said” uses poetry, prose and song to encapsulate the African American experience through artistic works by women of color, exploring themes of self-reflection and sisterhood.
All ages.


Tuesday, February 18, 5:30 p.m.
Issa Kickback: Black History Month Celebration
Celebrate Black History Month with games, trivia, Black-owned snacks and music.
All ages.


Thursday, February 20, 6:00 p.m.
Black History Month Bingo
Join us for a casual game of bingo with Black History Month facts. 
All ages. Registration required.


Wednesday, February 26, 6:00 p.m.
African Waist Beads
Learn about the West African tradition of wearing waist beads and make your own.
Teens and adults. Registration required.


Thursday, February 27, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Soul Train Party
Get down to hits from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s. Show off your best moves in the Soul Train line and prove your knowledge with the scramble board. 
All ages.

 


 

All Month
Black History Month Scavenger Hunt
Learn about a variety of Black historical figures by embarking in a scavenger hunt in the Children’s Area.
Children and families.


Saturday, February 1, 10:00 a.m.
Black History Month Story Time
Celebrate Black authors and illustrators in this story time.
Children and families. Registration recommended.


Monday, February 10, 6:00 p.m.
Anansi the Spider
Presented by Bobby Norfolk
Hear stories about a trickster who teaches cultural values and traditions from African and Caribbean folklore.
Children and families.


Thursday, February 20, 2:00 p.m.
Fannie Lou Hamer: Seeds of Change
Learn about Fannie Lou Hamer and her work for food justice and start some seeds for your garden.
Adults. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 25, 10:00 a.m.
Baby Disco
Celebrate Black musicians from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s while we dance and play.
Ages 0-36 months. 
 

 

 

All Month
Black History Month Scavenger Hunt
See if you can spot all of the influential Black figures in the Children’s Area and win a prize.
Ages 3-10.


Saturday, February 8, 10:00 a.m.
African Percussion
Presented by Freedom Arts and Education Center
Explore the diverse percussion traditions of Africa and learn the techniques and rhythms of authentic instruments like the djembe, caxixi, agogo and kalimba.
Ages 8-16. Registration required.


Monday, February 10, 6:00 p.m.
“Secret Gallery” 
Presented by The Black Rep and Co-Sponsored by the City of Clayton
“Secret Gallery” explores Black art through live interpretations of stories enhanced by movement and song, complementing Saint Louis Art Museum’s exhibition “Narrative Wisdom and African Arts.” 
All ages.

Clayton, Missouri in green text with illustration of houses, trees and high-rise buildings

Tuesday, February 11, 6:00 p.m.
Amazing Abayomi Dolls
Learn about the history behind these special, easy-to-make dolls that originated from the Yoruba culture in West Africa and then make your own. 
Ages 10-17. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 25, 6:00 p.m.
Kehinde Wiley Portraits
Learn about artist Kehinde Wiley and make your own cut and paste portraits. 
Ages 8-14. Registration required.
 

 

 

Monday, February 3, 11:00 am
Boogie Bop
Dance to Black artists who dominated the music scene of the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s. 
Ages 0-5.


Tuesday, February 4, 6:00 p.m.
Black Music in Arch City
Presented by Freedom Arts and Education
This workshop combines music and history to trace the lives of some of the most influential African American musicians from St. Louis including Miles Davis, Chuck Berry, Albert King and Nelly. 
Teens and adults. Registration required.


Thursday, February 6, 10:30 a.m.
Black History Month Story Time
Enjoy this Black History Month story time as we read books from Black authors.
Ages 0-4


Friday, February 7, 12:00 p.m.
“Summer of Soul” Viewing
Enjoy the powerful and transporting documentary “Summer of Soul” on our big screen. Popcorn provided. MPAA rating: PG-13. Running time: 118 min. 
Ages 13 and older.


Fridays in February, 3:30 p.m.
Friday Movie Series
Featuring movies with Black artists and voices every Friday.
All ages.


Thursday, February 13, 5:30 p.m.
Black History Movie Night
Celebrate the role of music in the South African struggle against apartheid with a viewing of “Amandla! A Revolution in Four-Part Harmony” on our big screen. MPAA rating: PG-13. Running time: 103 min. 
All ages. Registration recommended.


Thursday, February 27, 5:30 p.m.
The Art of African Fashion : A Celebration of Clothing, Cloth and Culture
Enjoy an exciting fashion show that highlights the use of authentic African textiles in contemporary fashion and the cultural tradition of telling stories through cloth and clothing. Light refreshments provided. 
All ages. Registration required.

 


 

Thursday, February 13, 2:00 p.m.
Blues Legends Live: Celebrating the Lives and Music of Blues Greats
Using library resources, we will delve into the rich history of the blues genre, tracing its origins from African roots to the Mississippi Delta and beyond. By sampling iconic blues artists, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the profound impact of the Blues on American music and culture. 
Adults.


Tuesday, February 18, 6:00 p.m. 
Ice Cream Social 
Enjoy an ice cream social to commemorate Alfred L. Cralle, the inventor of the ice cream scoop.
Ages 6-11. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 25, 6:00 p.m.
Family Movie Night: “The Princess and the Frog”
Bring blankets from home and enjoy crafts, snacks and a movie. MPAA rating: G. Running time: 97 min. 
Children and families.


Wednesday, February 26, 10:00 a.m. 
Baby Disco
Celebrate Black musicians from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s while we dance and play. 
Ages 0-36 months.


Wednesday, February 26, 6:00 p.m.
Anansi the Spider Stories
Presented by Bobby Norfolk
Hear stories about a trickster who teaches cultural values and traditions from African and Caribbean folklore. 
Children and families.

 

 

 

All Month
Black History Month Author Scavenger Hunt
Celebrate Black History Month with a scavenger hunt for famous Black authors.
All ages.


Saturday, February 1, 2:30 p.m.
Feature Film: “The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman”
Enjoy a movie on our big screen. MPAA rating: PG. Running time: 110 min.
All ages.


Wednesday, February 5, 6:00 p.m.
Crafting Through History
Learn about history through crafts inspired by American Girl characters. 
Ages 6-12.


Thursday, February 6, 5:00 p.m.
African Percussion
Presented by Freedom Arts and Education Center
Explore the diverse percussion traditions of Africa and learn the techniques and rhythms of authentic instruments like the djembe, caxixi, agogo and kalimba.
Ages 8-16. Registration required.


Friday, February 7, 10:00 a.m.
Black History Month Story Time
Celebrate Black authors and illustrators in this story time.
Children and families.


Tuesday, February 11, 5:30 p.m.
Paint the Night with Wonder
Add an artistic touch to a vase while listening to the sounds of Stevie Wonder.
Adults. Registration required.


Wednesday February 19, 6:30 p.m.
Video Games: SwimSanity 
Play a Nintendo Switch game created by Black developers. 
Ages 7-15.

 

 

 

Thursday, February 6, 6:00 p.m.
Black Music in Arch City
Presented by Freedom Arts and Education
This workshop combines music and history to trace the lives of some of the most influential African American musicians from St. Louis including Miles Davis, Chuck Berry, Albert King and Nelly.
Teens and adults. Registration required.


Monday, February 10, 6:30 p.m.
Be Your Own Superhero
Celebrate author and illustrator Keturah Ariel Bobo with a reading of “I Believe I Can” then create personalized superhero capes. 
Ages 6-12. Registration required.


Wednesday, February 12, 3:00 p.m.
Potato Chip Taste Test
Learn about chef George Crum then have fun tasting and rating a variety of potato chips. 
Ages 12-17. Registration required.


Saturday, February 15, 10:00 a.m. 
Black Author Explorations: Jerdine Nolen
Enjoy a read-aloud of "Harvey Potter's Balloon Farm." Practice making colorful balloon animals. 
Ages 7-11. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 18, 6:00 p.m.
West African Hand-Drumming
Get an interactive lesson on the history and rhythms of West African hand-drumming.
Ages 5-17.


Thursday, February 20, 3:00 p.m.
Teen Trivia Challenge
Test your knowledge of famous Black Americans and earn yummy prizes.
Ages 12-17.
 

 

 

Tuesday, February 11, 6:00 p.m.
Black Music in Arch City
Presented by Freedom Arts and Education
This workshop combines music and history to trace the lives of some of the most influential African American musicians from St. Louis including Miles Davis, Chuck Berry, Albert King and Nelly.
Teens and Adults. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 18, 6:00 p.m.
Annie Malone & the Science of Self-Care
Learn about Madam C.J. Walker's mentor and rival, a turn-of-the-century St. Louisan who turned a knack for chemistry into a beauty empire. Take home a recipe and sample inspired by her wellness philosophies.
Adults and teens. Registration required.


Monday, February 24, 6:00 p.m.
Listening Party: ‘90s R&B
Kick back and enjoy some relaxing activities while you listen to R&B jams from the ‘90s. Refreshments served. 
Adults.


Thursday, February 27, 6:00 p.m.
Feature Film: “Get Out”
Enjoy this speculative thriller directed by Jordan Peele on our big screen. MPAA rating: R. Running time: 103 min. Refreshments served.
Adults.
 

 

 

All Month
Black History Month Scavenger Hunt
Search the shelves for clues based upon influential Black authors. Participants will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win a prize. 
Teens and adults.


Friday, February 7, 2:00 p.m.
Art History: Alma Woodsey Thomas
Learn about Alma Woodsey Thomas and create a piece of art inspired by her work. 
Adults. Registration recommended.


Thursday, February 13, 6:00 p.m.
Potato Chip Taste Test
Learn about chef George Crum then have fun tasting and rating a variety of potato chips with a few hot sauces.
Ages 10-17. Registration required.


Friday, February 28, 9:30 a.m.
Baby Disco
Celebrate Black musicians from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s while we dance and play.
Ages 0-36 months. 
 

 

 

All Month
Black History Month Author Scavenger Hunt
Celebrate Black History Month with a scavenger hunt for famous Black authors. 
All ages.


Tuesday, February 11, 10:30 a.m.
BHM Art: Alma Woodsey Thomas
Create artwork in the style of Alma Woodsey Thomas. 
Ages 2-5. Registration required.


Friday, February 21, 1:00 p.m.
Homeschool Hang: Ice Cream Social
Enjoy an ice cream social to commemorate Alfred L. Cralle, the inventor of the ice cream scoop. 
All ages. Registration required.


Thursday, February 27, 6:00 p.m.
Black Music in Arch City
Presented by Freedom Arts and Education
This workshop combines music and history to trace the lives of some of the most influential African American musicians from St. Louis including Miles Davis, Chuck Berry, Albert King and Nelly.
Teens and adults. Registration required.


Friday, February 28, 10:30 a.m.
Black Illustrator Story Time: Christian Robinson
Learn about Christian Robinson and enjoy a read-aloud of “Another” and “You Matter.” 
Ages 2-5.
 

 

 

Thursday, February 6, 1:00 p.m.
Blues Legends Live: Celebrating the Lives and Music of Blues Greats
Using library resources, we will delve into the rich history of the blues genre, tracing its origins from African roots to the Mississippi Delta and beyond. By sampling iconic blues artists such as Robert Johnson, B.B. King, Muddy Waters and Etta James, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the profound impact of the blues on American music and culture. 
Adults. Registration required.


Saturday, February 15, 10:00 a.m.
Anansi the Spider Stories
Presented by Bobby Norfolk
Hear stories about a trickster who teaches cultural values and traditions from African and Caribbean folklore.
Children and families.


Tuesday, February 18, 10:00 a.m.
Black History Month STEAM
Explore STEAM concepts hands-on with activities inspired by famous figures in Black history.
Ages 3-7. 


Thursday, February 20, 4:00 p.m.
Potato Chip Taste Test
Learn about chef George Crum then have fun tasting and rating a variety of potato chips. 
Ages 10-17. Registration required


Tuesday, February 25, 10:00 a.m.
Baby Disco
Celebrate Black musicians from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s while we dance and play.
Ages 0-36 months. 
 

 

 

Friday, February 7, 10:00 a.m. 
Virtual Program: Seeking Recognition for Descendants of Enslaved
Presented by Descendants of the St. Louis University Enslaved
Explore the efforts to honor enslaved people owned by Jesuits and Saint Louis University, preserve their heritage and repair historical harms. 
Adults. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 11, 10:00 a.m.
Virtual Program: The Life and Work of George Washington Carver
Presented by the National Park Service
Learn about the hardship and violent times that George Washington Carver endured during his enslavement and the ‘I Can’ attitude that persisted throughout his life. 
Adults. Registration required.


Thursday, February 13, 2:00 p.m.
Virtual Program: Free African American Genealogy Websites
Discover 10 great websites for African American genealogy that are free to use. Learn how to access them and what types of records you can find. 
Adults. Registration required.


Friday, February 14, 10:00 a.m.
Virtual Program: 1917 Race Massacre in East St. Louis
Presented by Andrew Theising 
The 1917 East St. Louis race massacre was one of the bloodiest in U.S. history. It was also notable for the reparations paid by the local government, as mandated by Illinois law. Explore how this could be a model for modern discussions of reparations. 
Adults. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 18, 6:30 p.m. 
Virtual Program: If You Love Colson Whitehead
Library staff will share their favorite books by Colson Whitehead and similar titles by other authors that you may enjoy. In honor of this year’s St. Louis Literary Award recipient Colson Whitehead. For more information, visit www.slu.edu. 
Adults. Registration required.


Thursday, February 20, 2:00 p.m.
Virtual Program: The Making of a Monument
Presented by the National Park Service
Learn about the 1943 designation of George Washington Carver's birthplace as a national monument, the first unit to honor an African American. 
Adults. Registration required.


Tuesday, February 25, 2:00 p.m.
They Will Make Good Soldiers: Ulysses S. Grant and United States Colored Troops
Presented by Nick Sacco, Historian and Curator at Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site
By the time Ulysses S. Grant took overall command of the Union Army in 1864, roughly 15% of his troops were enlisted as United States Colored Troops. This program examines General Grant's relationship with Black soldiers during the Civil War and how they contributed to victory on the battlefield.
Adults. Registration required