All 17 branches within the Palm Beach County Library System worked together to upgrade the library’s free educational and entertainment programming. The library system is offering Zoom-only events that honor Black heritage and achievement during Black History Month.
Elizabeth Griffin is a reference and research librarian with the county's system. She says adults and children are requesting programming that shows diverse Black experiences.
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Author talks. African genealogy. Black scientist series with interactive activities.
"I would say, as a whole, African-Americans have created so many inventions. So many scientists. Different types of music. Different types of fashion. Different types of style," Griffin said. "And it's just important that the rest of the rest of the world or Palm Beach County, or whomever, is aware of these contributions."
As part of the viewing program, people can explore the 1619 Project by the New York Times or attend a discussion review of "Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents," the book by award-winning author Isabel Wilkerson.
Griffin says their first presentation program, with research scholar Dr. Aisha Johnson, was a hit. The archivist spoke about the historic Julius Rosenwald Fund Library Program and its lasting impact on African-Americans in the South, including historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
"We had people from California. We had people from Canada," Griffin said. "The response has been amazing."
One of the next major events is the “Whose Streets” film screening by PBS, on Feb. 16. And people can join the free live events via www.pbclibrary.org.