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Black History Is American History
At every turn in our past—and at every moment in the present—the black American experience is an essential element in the story of our nation. Join the Library in honoring the achievements and contributions of the African, African-American, and Afro-Latino people who continue to shape and define who we are, far beyond February of each year.
Monumental figures throughout black history (Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King) are familiar to all of us, and it’s important to remember the everyday people who comprise that history too. While our past must always be remembered and studied, black Americans’ place in today’s Library collection as authors, subjects, and characters—and the wide range of experiences and viewpoints they represent—is a powerful testament to the legacy the “greats” worked so tirelessly to achieve.
From heroes in the struggle for racial justice to ordinary characters in mainstream genre fiction, recommended books reflecting the spirit of black history can be found through Novelist Plus as well as on the Library’s own website. For the most recently published titles, there’s our Black History Month 2017 book list.
However you choose to observe Black History Month, remember—the richness of diversity in American history and culture is year-round. Celebrate every day!
About the image above: In 1965, John Lewis (far right) with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (center) leads a march in Alabama from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama to protest the denial of voting rights to African Americans. (© Steve Schapiro/Corbis) John Lewis visited Monroe County in 2015 on behalf of the Library and the Friends of the Library for The Power of Words author event.
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Novelist Plus: Welcome to the Club!
You’ve used Novelist Plus to create to-read lists customized to your preferences—but did you know it’s a great resource for book clubs too?
Book Discussion Guides for almost 900 fiction and nonfiction titles are waiting for you at Novelist Plus. Use search filters (genre, subject, and more) to narrow your list to the titles most suitable for your group, and you’ve got yourself a nice collection of ready-made book club materials. Each Discussion Guide includes a plot synopsis, questions designed to provoke lively discussion, and recommendations for further reading.
If you’re new to hosting book clubs, you’ll want to see our recent article offering practical advice—from a variety of sources—on what to expect, best practices for a productive discussion, and even more book recommendations and conversation starters. And for multiple copies of the titles you choose, don’t forget about the Book Club Kits you can borrow at the Library.
Of course, for those who prefer to leave the planning to others, there’s always a book club coming up soon at the Library. Keep your eye on our online Events Calendar for dates and locations.
Image credit: Shawn Calhoun
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Local Authors Collection
In order to support local authors and recognize local literacy and creativity efforts, the Library has created a Local Authors Collection. Books in the collection are either written by Monroe County residents, or the book takes place in Monroe County or otherwise demonstrates a strong local interest.
Books in the Local Author Collection can be found in the New Arrivals area on the second floor of the Main Library. The books have a special label on them, making them easy to find and proudly marking them as home grown creative works.
If you or someone you know would like to add your book to the local author collection, we accept donated works in-person at any Library location or via mail. Please include the author’s name, street address, phone number, and email address. We also welcome any reviews, publicity materials, or other supplementary information about the title.
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What's Happening
Here are some highlights of what’s happening at your Library this month. For a complete list of Library programs and community events for all ages, see the Library’s online calendar.
Jump to: Children's Programs | Teen Programs | Adult Programs
READ-O: The Adult Winter Reading Game!
It’s winter, dreary, and cold. Break out with some fun and games at your Library! We present Adult Winter Reading BINGO with READ-O. Get your READ-O card at the Main Library, Ellettsville Branch, Bookmobile, or online. The game runs through February 24. Prizes available while supplies last.
Children's Programs:
Black History Celebration: Children's Literature
1–3 PM, Sunday, February 12
Children's Program Room, Main Library
Stories featuring African-American female characters, presented by IU’s Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center Library. Also create a multicultural friendship wreath, sharing dreams you have for yourself, the community, and the world. For ages 3–8 and their families.
Griot Drum Ensemble
3–3:45 PM, Sunday, February 12
Auditorium, Main Library
Learn the meaning of different words and drum patterns through the dynamic rhythms of West African music, dance, and folktales. For all ages. Please register.
Unplugged Coding for Kids
6:30–7:15 PM, Thursday, February 2
Ellettsville Branch
A fun and interactive introduction to computer programming—using only pens, paper, and a stack of cups! For ages 6–12. Please register.
Find dozens more Children's programs and storytimes on the Library's Calendar of Events.
Teen Programs:
Knot Just Knitting
6–8 PM, Thursdays February 9 & 23
Ground Floor, Main Library
All things fiber art—knitting, crocheting, needle felting, embroidery, and more. All skill levels welcome. Bring your own project or start something new. Supplies and instruction provided. For ages 12–19.
Winter Movie Marathon: Hunger Games
Noon–6 PM, Saturday, February 18
Ground Floor, Main Library
Get cozy and revisit the movie series back-to-back with friends. Snacks provided. For ages 12–19.
Drop-In DIY
3:30–5 PM, Wednesday, February 8 (Sharpie mugs)
Ground Floor, Main Library
3:30–5PM, Tuesday, February 28 (owl key chains)
Ellettsville Branch
Impress friends and family with your amazing craft skills! Come to learn—or share your own projects. For ages 12–19.
Find many more teen programs using the Library's online calendar.
Adult Programs:
Wintertelling
7:30–9 PM*, Friday, February 17
Auditorium, Main Library
Traditionally, there are stories that are only told in winter. This after-hours concert of stories by members of the Bloomington Storytellers Guild is sure to entertain, enlighten, and warm the heart. Stay for refreshments and meet the tellers. For adults, teens, and older school-age children.
*Doors open at 7 PM. Please use Kirkwood Avenue entrance.
Food Fermentation: Fun, Frugal & Fabulous!
6:30–8:30 PM, Tuesday, February 7
Program Room 2B, Main Library
Fermented food is delicious, nutritious, and requires no special equipment to make. Our partners at Mother Hubbard's Cupboard lead a hands-on fermentation demonstration, offer tasty samples, and send you home with your own starter jar of fermenting food. Please register.
Documentary Film: Alive Inside
2–4 PM, Sunday, February 19
Auditorium, Main Library
The phenomenal ability of music to reawaken the soul of people living with Alzheimer’s is explored in this documentary. A presentation by Blooming Memories Thru Music, a local group who facilitates these experiences, follows the film.
Find many more adult programs using the Library's online calendar.
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