Why celebrate Black History month? Celebrating reminds us that Black History is American history. The Black experience in the United States is rich and complex. It is reflected in every aspect of our society and culture. There exists simultaneously great pain, great joy, and every feeling in between. By celebrating Black History, we create awareness of all people. By sharing our stories, we grow together. What would you like to learn more about?
Join us online to celebrate Black History Month with the Marin County Free Library, in partnership with the County of Marin African American Employees Association. There are exciting programs for all ages. Revisit the familiar or discover something new.
To register for these events on Zoom, see our calendar of events for Black History Month., opens a new window
Children's Programs with Amber Hines
Soul Soup - Saturday, February 6th at 10:30am--Family style music ritual with drumming, stories, and song.
Diaspora Dance - Saturday, February 13th at 10:30am--An empowering restorative movement experience for the whole family.
Embody Rhythm - Saturday, February 20th at 10:30am--Bring awareness to the body through rhythm and repetition. Explore your groove!
Adult Programs
Wellness and the Black Community - Thursday, February 4th at 12pm--Join us for a discussion on mental health resources within the black community.
Influential Women - Wednesday, February 10th at 12pm--A conversation with Dr. Lois Merriweather Moore, author, educator community leader and recipient of the Martin Luther King Humanitarian Award and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Gates Millennium Scholarship Award.
Protest and Civil Unrest - Thursday, February 18th at 12pm--An enlightening discussion on civil rights and advocacy with Play Marin Founder & CEO, Paul Austin.
Movie Presentation: Amazing Grace - Friday, February 19th at 7pm--Aretha Franklin’s triumphant return to her gospel roots.
Fellowship - Wednesday, February 24th at 12pm--Join us for a virtual interactive activity on The Black Identity.
Artist Presentation: Orin Carpenter - Wednesday, February 24th at 7pm--Mixed media artist, Orin Carpenter, will discuss his process and commitment to creating socially conscious work.
Panelist Presentation: Black Experience in Marin - Thursday, February 25th at 7pm--Our cross-generational panel includes Meloni Page, leader of County of Marin African-American Employee Association; Noah Griffin, Singer/Actor/Speaker/Author; Otis Bruce, Assistant District Attorney County of Marin; Sophia Martin, youth activist; Amber Allen-Pierson, Tam Wellness Coordinator and activist; Paul Austin, Executive Director of PLAY Marin.
For more information and to register for events click on
Black History Month
Movies
Our streaming service, Kanopy, has an extensive collection of documentaries and films to entertain and educate. Search for "Black History Month" “Black Lives Matter” or “African American” to bring up a selection that will keep you viewing for hours. (Tip: Log in to Kanopy first, and then click on the links to go straight to the movie collections.)
Books
Here are two lists to get you started!
Black Joy: Titles That Celebrate and Give Voice to the Black Experience
#ownvoices New YA by Black Creators
Contributors: Stephanie and Shereen; lists: April and Katrina
