Kiera Parrott
Director
Darien Library

February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate the contributions and accomplishments of African Americans throughout history.

The origins of Black History Month can be traced back to 1926, when historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History announced the second week of February as “Negro History Week.” This week was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.  

Over the years, the observance expanded as more cities, towns, and organizations began holding special exhibitions, lectures, and performances to commemorate and recognize the impact of African Americans on every field from science and technology to literature and the arts. In 1976, it was officially recognized by the U.S. government as Black History Month. Since then, every U.S. president designates an annual theme for the month-long observance.

This year, the theme is “Black Resistance: A Journey to Equality.” The Association for the Study of African American Life and History offers a detailed history and additional resources on this year’s theme. In addition, the National Museum of African American History & Culture is hosting a wide range of events—many of them with remote streaming options. 

Here at Darien Library, we are hosting a lecture on the largest community of Black landowners in New York City, a family storytime, an art program for children exploring the work of Alma Woodsey Thomas, and a science workshop on the innovations of Dr. Marie Clark Taylor.

Black History Month is an opportunity to read and reflect on the rich history and contributions of African Americans as well as the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. Our librarians have curated a list of great titles for adults, teens, and children.

Explore a rich heritage.

Claudie dreams of having a special talent of her own, but can't quite find her calling. Her dad is a baker, her mom is a reporter, and their roommates are musicians and artists. When her family receives an eviction notice, she decides to take a leap of faith.

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Maya Moore, one of the WNBA's brightest stars, met her husband, Jonathan, through a prison ministry program in 2007. Their memoir follows their incredible love story, Maya's triumphs on and off the basketball court, and the couple's shared passion for justice. 

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Browse more reads by Black authors!

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