Your public library is here to connect us with each other through books, resources, and experiences that celebrate Black history and culture.
- Browse: Curated title suggestions for all ages.
- View: The Julian Legacy Museum in the Idea Box (February 4-March 4).
- Attend: Living Legacies and the Black History of Oak Park (February 24) and Black History Celebration of Gospel Music (February 25).
- Explore: Librarian-curated resources.
Browse titles we suggest
More librarian-curated reading lists
- For kids: Titles by Black creators
Ebooks, digital audiobooks, movies & more
- On Hoopla: Ebooks, digital audiobooks, comics, and music
- On Kanopy: Films and documentaries
View the Julian Legacy Museum in the Idea Box
The Julian Legacy Museum in the Main Library Idea Box highlights the academic achievements, professional contributions, humanitarian endeavors, and family life of Drs. Percy L. Julian and Anna Johnson Julian.
This exhibit is open for specific hours and days from Sunday, February 4 through Monday, March 4.
- Exhibit open hours: Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, February 4-March 4, 2-4 pm, Main Library Idea Box.
- Public reception: Sunday, February 4, 1-4 pm, Main Library Veterans Room. Register now »
Attend upcoming events
Living Legacies & the Black History of Oak Park
Saturday, February 24, 1-2:30 pm, Main Library
Join us for an honest and inspiring conversation with three of Oak Park's remarkable Black elders on the history of our community, their lived experiences and wisdom, and where we go from here on Saturday, February 24, 1-2:30 pm, at the Main Library. Register now »
Black History Celebration of Gospel Music
Sunday, February 25, 3-5 pm, Main Library
Join various gospel choir members and singers in a Black History Celebration of Gospel Music. Journey with us from Thomas Dorsey through Maverick City Singers. Register now »
Explore librarian-curated online resources
Use your Oak Park library card and PIN to access:
- African-American History Online: Find a fresh way to explore the full spectrum of African American history and culture, covering five centuries.
- African American Heritage: Explore a genealogy database devoted to African American family history research.
- PebbleGo (grades prek-3) and PebbleGo Next (grades 3-5): Read the biographies of Black Americans, including civil rights leaders, explorers and pioneers, scientists, inventors and business leaders, athletes, and more.
