Celebrate Black History Month at the Detroit Public Library with a packed schedule of events throughout February. Explore workshops, history discussions, author talks, book clubs, dance performances, community quilt making, storytimes, film screenings, and so much more! Take a look at our programming schedule by location below:
Bowen Branch
- Black History Month Scavenger Hunt
Month of February
Stop in and find the fun facts about Black History Month. Then turn in your tracking sheet for a small prize! - Black History Month Storytime
Thursday, February 12, 6:00 pm
Join us for a special evening storytime focusing on Black History Month!
Campbell Branch
- Black History Month Family Movie Night
Saturday, February 21, 4:00 pm
Join us for a family movie night as we screen “Hidden Figures.” Snack and drinks will be provided.
Chandler Park Branch
- A History of Negro League Baseball
Saturday, February 14, 11:00 am - 1:00pm
Join for a presentation by Brian Johnston the history of Negro League Baseball.
Chaney Branch
- Family Storytime
Saturday, February 14, 1:00 – 1:45 pm
Celebrate the amazing achievements of Africans and African Americans through stories! - Family Craft Day In Celebration of Black History Month
Saturday, February 14, 2:30 – 4:00 pm
Honor your history and decorate picture frames for your family’s ancestral photos.
Chase Branch
- Community Watercolor Quilt
Month of February
Learn about quilts and the underground railroad while unleashing your inner creativity by contributing to a community watercolor quilt. For all ages at our Creation Station. - Adrinkra Canvas Bags
Saturday, February 28, 1:00 – 2:30 pm
Explore the rich meanings behind Ghanaian Adinkra symbols and then decorate a canvas bag. For adults and teens ages 13 and up.
Conely Branch
- Black History Month: Author Storytime
Saturday, February 7, 10:30 – 11:30 am
Meet DeAnn Wiley, author and illustrator, as she reads her book “Double Dutch Queen.” - Crafternoon-Freedom Quilt
Wednesday, February 25, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Create your own Freedom Quilt square out of paper and find out what the coded patterns mean. - When Detroit Plays the Numbers
Saturday, February 28, 2:00 – 3:30 pm
Author and professor Felicia B. George explores Detroit’s numbers racket in Black communities and its history.
Douglass Branch
- Take & Make Crafts
Month of February
During February, stop by the Douglass Branch for an assortment of take-home crafts celebrating Black History Month. - Behind the Seen: African American Art at the DIA
Wednesday, February 11, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Highlights of the Detroit Institute of Art collections that inspire the viewer to explore American history, society, and creative expressions from African American artists from the 19th century to present. - Movie Day at Douglass
Wednesday, February 18, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
In celebration of Black History Month, Douglass Branch will be hosting a viewing of the movie Hidden Figures. Refreshments will be served. - Craft Fun at Douglass!
Thursday, February 19, 3:00 – 5:00 pm
Children can create their own galaxy and capture it in a jar! All materials provided to complete your galaxy. - To the STARS! STEM and Storytime
Friday, February 20, 2:00 – 3:30 pm
Join us as we read about Mae Johnson’s amazing contribution to NASA and build our own rocket!
Duffield Branch
- “Ask a Tech” Black History Google Images
Wednesday, February 4, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Need help finding pictures for a Black history project? Parents and students can receive a tutorial on retrieving images from Google. Walk-ins welcome, or by scheduled appointment throughout the month. - Author Talk with Anthony Brogdon
Saturday, February 7, 2:00—3:30 pm
Anthony Brogdon will discuss his new book, That’s My Land, which explores the history of Black towns and settlements across America. Copies will be available to purchase. - Black History Month Stories Out Loud
Saturday, February 14, 2:00 – 3:30 pm
A selection of children’s books focused on the Black Experience are read aloud, recited, drawn, sung and brought to life. For families, ages 5 and up. - Black History Pages: A Creative Zine Workshop
Thursday, February 19, 5:00 – 6:30 pm
Create your story and zine as you explore the history, culture and contributions of the Black community through the art of zine-making. For ages 8-18. - African Drumming and Dance Workshop
Saturday, February 21, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
An interactive experience led by Amen-Ra Drummers and Dancers that introduces participants to the rich cultural traditions of African rhythm and movement. Through guided instruction, participants will lean the fundamentals of African drumming and traditional rhythms and dance steps. For families ages 5 and up. - DPL After Dark: The Supremes
Tuesday, February 24, 6:00 – 7:30 pm
A lecture on the musical legacy of Motown’s legendary female group.
Edison Branch
- In Our Own Voice: African American Art
Wednesday, February 11, 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Highlights of the Detroit Institute of Art collections that inspire the viewer to explore American history, society, and creative expressions from African American artists from the 19th century to present. - Black History Month Book Report Station
February 23 -26, during open hours
Is your book report due at the end of the month? Come to Edison to work on it! We will have poster boards, glue, decorations, and preprinted photos of popular book report candidates! Available while supplies last.
Elmwood Park Branch
- Music Bingo: Celebrate African American Love Songs
Tuesday, February 10, 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Valentine’s Day plus Black History Month equals a truly spectacular event. Our usual music bingo, but with the biggest and best love songs by African Americans. Guess the song, sing along, and mark 5 on your cards. Limited prizes, for adults. - Poetry Workshop with Ms. Galaxy
Saturday, February 21, 2:00 – 3:30 pm
Celebrate Nina Simone’s birthday with a poetry workshop for all ages to learn how to express yourself in spoken word.
Franklin Branch
- Storytime: Be the Light: How She Became Angela Davis
Tuesday, February 24, 5:30 – 6:30 pm
Join us to hear the story of activist and writer Angela Davis. Then make a button to support a cause you believe in!
Hubbard Branch
- In Our Own Voice: African American Art
Monday, February 2, 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Highlights of the Detroit Institute of Art collections that inspire the viewer to explore American history, society, and creative expressions from African American artists from the 19th century to present. - Lego Storybuilders: Black History Month Edition
Wednesdays, February 11, 18 & 25, 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Children will explore exciting books and then use Lego bricks to construct something inspired by the narrative. For ages 6 – 10. - Sistah’s Braid Too! Natural Hair & Braiding Workshop
February 7, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Learn about basic braiding techniques (three-strand braids, cornrows, box braids), natural hair care and maintenance, protective styling fundamentals, and cultural significance and history of braiding. The first 5 attendees will receive a free supply kit to supplement their learning! For ages 10 and up. - Saturday Family Movie Matinee: The Wiz
February 14, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Featuring an all-star Black cast, including Diana Ross and Michael Jackson, The Wiz is a vibrant celebration of Black culture and creativity. Snacks will be available while supplies last. - Diversity in Romance
February 23, 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Detroit author Sylvia Hubbard discusses the four changes that African American writers had on the romance genre in America and authors who have made other significant contributions!
Jefferson Branch
- Black History Month Bingo
Saturday, February 7, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Learn about prominent figures in Black History through a fun Bingo game. Win cool prizes, light refreshments served. All ages welcome. - Black Love Paint Party
Saturday, February 14, 2:00 – 5:00 pm
Come out for a paint party that celebrates Black History and love at the same time! An afternoon of painting, music, and good vibes. - Black History Month Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, February 28, Noon – 5:00 pm
Explore the library, solve clues, and learn about Black history in a fun and interactive way during our Scavenger Hunt!
Lincoln Branch
- Black History Month “Mindfulness”
Wednesday, February 4, 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Learn how Black History Month is connected to Mindfulness. Practicing mindfulness has been shown to positively impact overall well-being, mental health, and physical health. - Black History Month Movie Series
Saturdays, 3:30 – 5:30 pm
Join us for a series of kid-friendly movies featuring Black Historical characters.
February 7: “Ruby Bridges”
February 14: “Glory Road”
February 21: “Hidden Figures”
February 28: “Remember the Titans” - From the Black Bottom to Elmwood Park
Thursday, February 12, 3:00 – 4:30 pm
Journey back in time as Patricia Millender shares her family’s legacy through storytelling and a handmade quilt she crafted. - Teen Book Club: Children of Blood and Bone
Thursday, February 12, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Join the last of our winter series Teen Book Club and enjoy Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi. Tomi Adeyemi is a Black American author who wrote this title with an eye to connecting the books’ themes of prejudice, to real world issues and the Black experience. We will discuss the book, and then you will be challenged to write a short story from three different perspectives just like in the book. - Book Club Discussion: Harlem Rhapsody
Saturday, February 21, Noon – 1:30 pm
Join us for a discussion of the historical fiction novel Harlem Rhapsody by Victoria Christopher Murray. Harlem Rhapsody is a novel about Jessie Redmon Fauset, the first Black woman to edit The Crisis, a magazine that shaped the Harlem Renaissance. This is a hybrid program, join us in-person or via Zoom. - Journeying on the Underground Railroad
Thursday, February 26, 3:00 – 4:30 pm
Learn about Detroit’s connection to the Underground Railroad in this educational, entertaining, interactive—and fun program.
Main Library
- Edye & Mike: Black Women in Jazz
Sunday, February 1, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Join musicians Edye Evans Hyde and Mike Hyde for a concert and presentation highlighting influential jazz singers. - Author Talk: Civil Rights Activism with MacArthur Cotton and John Obee
Sunday, February 1, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
In their powerful new book, Mississippi’s Black Cotton, Civil Rights activists MacArthur Cotton and John Obee pay tribute to the lesser-known Black men and women in the fight for racial justice. - Recognizing Claude Harvard’s Legacy
Saturday, February 7, 1:00 – 3:00 pm
Join us for a presentation by local historian David Head and Dr. Mursulata Muhammad, granddaughter of Claude Harvard, that explores and celebrates the legacy of the African-American inventor Claude Harvard. - West African Dance Demonstration
Tuesday, February 10, 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Instructors from the TeMaTe Institute for Black Dance and Culture will demonstrate West African dance and then teach everyone some moves. - African Naming Ceremony with Mary Grant
Tuesday, February 17, 5:30 - 7:00 pm
An immersive African Naming Ceremony workshop for adults, combining storytelling, history, and cultural reflection. Explore the power of names, connect with ancestral roots, and celebrate identity, destiny, and legacy. - Author Talk: Journalist Kevin Sack on Mother Emanuel AME Church
Saturday, February 21, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
In Mother Emanuel: Two Centuries of Race, Resistance, and Forgiveness in One Charleston Church, Kevin Sack pays tribute to one of the nation’s most important African American churches, the site of both tragedy and triumph since its founding in 1817. - Midnight: Detroit and the Underground Railroad
Saturday, February 21, 2:30 – 3:30 pm
Presented by the Detroit Historical Society, discover how Detroit played a pivotal role as a vital station on the Underground Railroad, as thousands crossed the river to freedom in Canada from Detroit. - Detroit Labor Movement
Saturday, February 28, 1:00 – 3:00 pm
An enlightening four-part presentation from local historians and university professors, that explores different aspects of the Detroit Labor Movement
Main Library: Children's Library
- Anansi Tales with Roshanda “Shani” Womack
Sunday, February 1, 3:00 pm
Special guest storyteller, Shani Womack, tells of the adventures of Anansi the Spider. For all ages. - Wendell Scott: Storytime and Racing Fun!
Wednesday, February 4, 4:00 pm
A special Black History Month story time celebrating the life of racing champion, Wendell Scott. Listen to stories and play with toy cars on our library race tracks. - Story Time with The Nap Time Show
Thursday, February 5, 11:00 am
Introducing “The Nap Time Show,” the groundbreaking interactive preschool series that is revolutionizing the way children and families view rest. This show features an African American cast and is sure to bring smiles to your kids’ faces! All ages are welcome. - STEAM Club—Black History Month Edition
Thursdays, 2:00 – 3:00 pmKids ages 6–12 can explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math through fun games, creative crafts, and exciting hands-on experiments.
February 5: Learn About Ants Like Animal Behaviorist Charles Henry Turner
February 12: Explore Flight through the work of Bessie Coleman
February 26: Explore Oceanography through the work of Evan Forde - Peace by Piece: BHM Community Quilt Project
Friday, February 6, 13, 20 & 26, 1:00 pm
Detroit fiber artist Cat Washington leads a 4-week quilt workshop where kids can create their own vibrant squares that will be stitched into a beautiful community quilt. For ages 8-18. - Exploring Space with Neil DeGrasse Tyson
Saturday, February 7, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Explore Space with Neil DeGrasse Tyson through the viewing of an educational, biographical video, and a craft involving the creation of your own “flying saucer” rocket ship, or the planets of the solar system. For ages 8-12. - Kenyan Story Time
Sunday, February 8, 2:00 pm
George Otieno returns with more exciting tales from Kenya. Listen to traditional stories and have a chance to take part in the tales. Kids will get to dress up in traditional Maasai garb. All ages welcome. - Black Love: Positive Affirmations & Sound Bath Yoga Session
Sunday, February 15, 3:00 pm
Join special guest author Diviniti and our friends from The Village PTW for a self-esteem boost that children can incorporate into their daily lives. We will also focus on calming techniques for stress release. Help your kids learn healthy habits early. - Princess & The Frog Winter Ball
Wednesday, February 18, 4:30 – 7:00 pm
Dress up as your favorite princess or prince, or wear something fancy for our Winter Ball. Dine on Cajun cuisine, dance to great NOLA music, and have loads of fun. A special princess will be here for pictures, and all kids will receive a crown to wear and take home. All ages. - Alnur African Dance
Friday, February 20, Noon
Enjoy a performance by the Alnur African Dance Troupe. Learn a few steps to practice with the youth performers. All ages welcome. - Black History Mysteries
Saturday, February 21, Noon – 1:00 pm
Kids will uncover clues about incredible Black inventors, artists, scientists, and leaders who changed history. This interactive scavenger hunt is a fun way to celebrate Black History Month through puzzles, problem solving, and discovery. - Saturday at the Movies
Saturday February 21, 3:00 – 4:30 pm
A fun-filled afternoon as we screen “The Princess and the Frog.” - Let’s Learn about York: Story Time with MDNR
Thursday, February 26, 11:00 am
Michigan Department of Natural Resources will present a special story time all about York, the famous African American man who traveled with Lewis and Clark and was instrumental in their success. - Painting Everyday Life: The Art of Clementine Hunter
Saturday, February 28, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Learn about Clementine Hunter (1886–1988), a self-taught black folk artist from Louisiana who began painting in her 50s. Clementine told the story of her life—picking cotton, cooking, and celebrating family—through her colorful, joyful paintings. Kids will create their own artwork inspired by the people and places that matter most to them. For ages 6 & up. - Lego Challenge: Black History Month
Saturday, February 28, 2:00 – 3:30 pm
Use LEGO bricks to create models inspired by groundbreaking inventions from notable Black innovators in fields such as science, technology, and engineering. Learn about the significant contributions of Black inventors throughout history. For ages 8-12.
Main Library: HYPE Teen Center
- That’s So Black History
Friday, February 6, 13, 20 & 27 at 1:00 pm
During the month of February, we will showcase Black History movies and shows each week. These films and episodes highlight powerful stories, historical figures, and cultural moments that inspire and educate. For ages 13-18. - Black Hair Care History & Workshop
Saturday, February 7, 2:00 pm
Detroit entrepreneur and teacher Courtney Calloway will lead us in a handson program that will teach us all about the unique history of Black hair care and how to create styles of your own. For ages 10-18. - Growing Our Roots: Crafting Heritage Trees
Saturday, February 7, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Teens will listen to an inspiring interview with horticulturalist, author, and historian Abra Lee, whose work explores the untold stories of Black gardeners, growers, and plant experts. While listening, participants will create their own wire-wrapped heritage trees—artistic sculptures symbolizing family, growth, and connection to the past. For teens ages 13-18.
Parkman Branch
- Black History Month Scavenger Hunt
February 9 - 14, During open hours
Look for clues throughout the library for our special Black History Month Scavenger Hunt! All youth are welcome to join the fun. - Black History Month Celebration
Saturday, February 14, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Under the direction of Dr. William Harrison, the Cass Tech Madrigal Choir and Cass Tech Men’s Ensemble will present a special performance in celebration of Black History Month. The performance will feature music written by African American composers and arrangers. All ages are welcome. - February Black History Month Trivia
Wednesday, February 18, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Test your knowledge of African American History in this fun trivia program, plus a chance to win fun prizes! For school-age youth through adults.
Redford Branch
- Adult Creative Art
Saturday, February 21, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Celebrate Black History Month with an African drumming and dance performance and a craft. - Movie Matinee @ Redford
Saturday, February 21, 3:00 - 5:00 pm
A family-friendly move with complimentary popcorn, in February we will be showing “Soul” for Black History Month.
Sherwood Forest Branch
- Black History Craft & Scavenger Hunt
February 2 – 28, during open hours
Learn about Black history by completing our scavenger hunt or craft, and stop by the reference desk to receive a prize. For ages 4 and up. - Black Women Making History: A Film Series
Thursdays at 3:00 pm
On Thursdays in February, we pay tribute to trailblazing Black women with a documentary film series.
February 5: Mavis!: Gospel Music Legend and Civil Rights Activist Mavis Staples
February 12: Move When the Spirit Says Move: The Legacy of Dorothy Foreman Cotton
February 19: Woman in Motion
February 26: Storming Caesars Palace
Wilder Branch
- The Jackie Robinson Story
Saturday, February 14, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Learn about Jackie Robinson, how he broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier in 1947 and left a legacy that keeps growing today. - Frederick Douglass Bookmark Craft
Saturday, February 14, 3:00 – 4:00 pm
Celebrate Frederick Douglass’ birthday and make a bookmark featuring his famous quotes. - Black History Month Story Time
Saturday, February 21, 11:00 am – Noon
Join us for a special story time themed around Black History Month with a Crafting Corner to follow after. - Black History Month Crafting Corner
Saturday, February 21, 11:00 am – 3:30 pm
Children are welcome to join us in the Children’s Area for Black History Month-themed crafts. - Black History with Kidada Williams
Saturday, February 21, 2:00 – 3:30 pm
Historian and Wayne State University professor Kidada Williams delves into the lives of African American victims and survivors of racist violence. Her new book, I Saw Death Coming: A History of Terror and Survival in the War Against Reconstruction, offers a reexamination of the Reconstruction-era South, transporting readers into the daily existence of formerly enslaved people building hope-filled new lives.
