February is Black History Month, a time to recognize, celebrate, and honor the rich and diverse history, important contributions, and achievements of Black Americans.
The month of February has been designated Black History Month since 1976. Sonoma County Library recognizes that celebrating and learning about the generations of Black Americans who have influenced and enriched our nation and society is much much more than a month. We honor African American history, community, and culture; recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Black Americans, locally and nationally during Black History Month and all year round.
In February 2023, we celebrate Black History Month by hosting events at our branch libraries and by highlighting books, movies, music, and resources available through your Sonoma County Library. The national theme for 2023 is Black Resistance, established by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), we are specially featuring relevant library and community resources.
Books and More!
Check out these recommended books and movies
our librarians have created for you:
- Adults: Fiction, Non-Fiction, Cinema
- Teens: (English) (Spanish)
- Children ages 8-12
- Children ages 0-7
Library Events:
The African Music and Arts Village (grades K-12)
This family-friendly, interactive program, led by Baba Shibambo, introduces the cultural traditions of South Africa through indigenous music and story-telling.
At 4 library locations: Rincon Valley, Healdsburg, Northwest Library, and Sonoma Valley Library
Hip Hop for Change: Theory of Hip Hop Evolution, Music and Culture (grades 7-12)
Experience the history, culture, and societal impact of hip hop through live and interactive presentations focused on historic and current examples of hip hop’s founding principles: peace, love, unity, and fun!
At 2 library locations: Rincon Valley Library and Sebastopol Library
“How to Have Difficult Conversations About Race”
Screening and Discussion
Screening of How to Have Difficult Conversations About Race helps readers gain the confidence to not only talk about race, but actually make a difference when you do.
At 2 library locations: Cloverdale Library and Sonoma Valley Library
History and Tradition of Afro-Peruvian
Drumming and Dance Performances
Join us to learn the history and tradition of the Afro-Peruvian Cajon drum and experience the movement and rhythm of Afro-Peruvian dancing presented by the Tradición Peruana Cultural Center.
At 3 library locations: Rohnert Park – Cotati Library, Northwest Santa Rosa, and Central Downtown Santa Rosa
Virtual Author Talk with Sadeqa Johnson: Award-Winning Author
Tuesday, February 28 at 1:00 PM PST
We look forward to seeing you for an invigorating conversation with highly acclaimed author Sadeqa Johnson as she talks about her new novel, The House of Eve! novel set in 1950s Philadelphia and Washington, DC, that explores what it means to be a woman and a mother, and how much one is willing to sacrifice to achieve her greatest goal.
Learn about quiltmaker Sarah Bond and her family's quilting legacy that spans generations.
Streaming in February on Creativebug
Learn about the tremendous impact that African Americans have had on our history with GetSetUp classes.
More information on GetSetUp here.
Ongoing events:
Dial-a-Story
New stories each Wednesday.
Celebrate Black History Month with your preschooler by calling our Dial-a-Story line (707-755-2050) to hear stories by black writers celebrating black children.
Virtual Author Talk with Celebrity Chef Jernard A. Wells
Tuesday, March 21 at 1:00 PM
A talk that will leave you starving for more! Chef Wells’ newest cookbook Southern Inspired serves up delicious and inventive recipes that remix the traditional flavors and classic dishes of Southern food and celebrate African-American culinary contributions to tables worldwide.
Read BIPOC Book Club: Passing by Nella Larsen
Tuesday, March 28, 2023 6:00pm
Meet virtually to discuss books by authors who are Black, Indigenous or People of Color. This month the book club will discuss Nella Larsen's “Passing.”
Events in our community:
The Petaluma Blacks for Community Development offers resources on information about the history of Black health, notable Black medical personnel through the years, food scarcity and food justice. Check out this site PBCD4us.com every week throughout February and March to find new additions to this site.
