We’ve put together a lineup of events and recommendations to help you celebrate Black History Month. Discover the history behind the Pullman maids and porters, enjoy a special storytime and craft based on The Stuff of Stars by Marion Dane Bauer, watch some award winning movies and much more! Looking for something to read or watch? Browse our curated list of books, movies and more.
Events
For Kids
Let’s Create (Drop in)
Wednesday, February 5, 4:15–5:15 p.m.
Grades K–5
Create a collage and mixed media art inspired by the work of Ekua Holmes.
Celebrate Black History Month Scavenger Hunt (Drop in)
Fridays, February 14, 21 & 28, 10a.m.–5p.m.
Find the hidden letters in Children’s Services to win a prize!
The Stuff of Stars Story & Craft (Drop in)
Monday, February 17, 4:15–5:15 p.m.
Grades K–5
Celebrate this Coretta Scott King Award winner by Marion Dane Bauer, learn about the Big Bang and stars and make a marbled paper project inspired by the art of illustrator Ekua Holmes.
Roots: Miles Davis & Ella Fitzgerald (Drop in)
Saturday, February 29, 1:30–2:30 p.m.
Join Judith and Ernie Davis for books, activities and snacks as we explore the lives of African American heroes and sheroes.
For Teens
Teen Movie Saturday: Hidden Figures (Drop in)
February 15, 2 p.m.
Grades 6–12
Watch movies in the Vortex with friends! Three brilliant African-American women at NASA serve as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history—the launching of astronaut John Glenn into orbit. Snacks provided.
Teen Movie Saturday: Black Panther (Drop in)
February 29, 2 p.m.
Grades 6–12
This Oscar nominated film features Black Panther, a superhero who defends Wakanda, a technologically advanced country that has hidden itself away from the world. Snacks provided.
For Adults & Teens
Black History Movie Week (Drop in)
6:30 p.m.
Monday, February 17: Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am
Tuesday, February 18: Hidden Figures
Wednesday, February 19: Gina’s Journey
Thursday, February 20: Harriet
For All Ages
Pullman Maids and Porters: A Walking Exhibit (Registration required)
Wednesday, February 5, 6:30 p.m.
Discover the history behind the maids and porters who worked for Pullman Car Company in Chicago in the late 19th century and early 20th century in this walking exhibit.
Recommendations
Check out some of our favorite materials celebrating Black History. If you see something you like, just click the item’s picture to check our catalog for availability. View our full list of recommendations.
Adult & Teen Highlights
Child & Tween Highlights
Roots: Celebrating Black History All Year Round
Since December 2018, Bolingbrook residents Judith and Ernie Davis have planned and presented Roots, a monthly program that celebrates African American heroes and sheroes. Although aimed at children, all ages have explored the lives of African American men and women who have contributed to their fields and the world. Children participate in DIY activities, and snacks are provided for all who attend.
The Davis family have put an extensive amount of research into each program. In addition to using our books and eResources, they have also gathered information from visiting museums around the country.
In the very first session of Roots, families learned about Elijah McCoy, who developed an automatic lubricator that allowed trains to run for long periods of time without stopping. They also learned about astronaut Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space. Since then, children have created a working eye model using a paper template and a small magnifier in honor of Dr. Patricia Bath. They made model airplanes after learning about the Tuskegee Airmen, and after learning about Serena Williams, children transformed the Storytime Room into the “Fountaindale Open,” and organized a table tennis tournament.
Join us for more fun! On Saturday, February 29 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., we’ll celebrate Miles Davis and Ella Fitzgerald. All ages are welcome!