Black History

Established as a general holiday in 2021, Juneteenth marks the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans on June 19, 1865, following the end of the Civil War. Celebrate this milestone in America's history by exploring book recommendations, films, and other resources that highlight the history of Black...

During Black History Month, we celebrate the African American experience and the legacies of those who have shaped our nation. The Library's Kansas City Digital Media Lab has been producing videos throughout the month that highlight notable Black Americans and their achievements as par...

During Black History Month, the Library highlights stories, history, resources, and more that celebrate the African American experience. Explore reading recommendations,  tune in to online events and activities, and learn about the Black Kansas Citians who helped shape our region. &nbs...

The Library commemorates Black History Month with a collection of speaker events, activities, and book discussions. Tune in to watch live online, or check out past programs on our YouTube channel.  

From classic literature to contemporary cinema, the Library offers a number of ways to discover stories celebrating the African American experience. As we commemorate Black History Month, check out a selection of recommended books and browse the collection of films available through the Library's free...

Each year, the Library partners with the Local Investment Commission (LINC) and the Black Archives of Mid-America to produce a Black History Month booklet celebrating the legacies and accomplishments of notable African Americans who blazed trails, broke barriers, led a...

We’re celebrating the 100th birthday of Kansas City jazz legend Charlie Parker. Known as “Yardbird,” or just “Bird,” he was born in Kansas City, Kansas, on August 29, 1920, and grew up in Kansas City, Missouri, during its peak years of jazz culture. Discover more about Parker’s impact on Kansas City an...

From classic literature to contemporary cinema, the Library offers a number of ways to discover stories celebrating the African American experience. As we commemorate Black History Month, check out a selection of recommended books and browse the collection of films available through the Library's free...

Each year, the Library partners with the Local Investment Commission (LINC) and the Black Archives of Mid-America to produce a series of Black History Month materials celebrating the legacies and accomplishments of notable African-Americans from the Kansas City area. T...