TRAVEL LOG - AFRICATOWN, USA (IN-PERSON)
Are you familiar with the Schooner Clotilda? Do you know how or why it became infamous? Join us for a discussion and presentation about the history of Africatown, Mobile, Alabama: its people and future. To prepare for this discussion, please read Zora Neale Hurston book Barracoon: The Story of the Last “Black Cargo.”
Wednesday, February 1
10:30am
Cambria Heights
218-13 Linden Boulevard
SCIENCE SUPER HEROES (IN-PERSON)
These STEM activities focus on scientific concepts that were studied or introduced by Black scientists and inventors. Recommended for ages 6+.
Wednesdays, February 1, 8, 15, 22
2:30pm
Arverne
312 Beach 54 Street
STORYTIME (IN-PERSON)
Join us for this storytime celebrating Black History and culture. Ages 4-8.
Wednesday, February 1
4pm
Woodhaven
85-41 Forest Parkway
TRIVIA AND BINGO (IN-PERSON)
How much do you know about the history of African Americans? Take a deep dive into the past every Wednesday afternoon at the Far Rockaway Library. Join us for an hour of trivia or Bingo, testing your knowledge and learning something new about the remarkable achievements of African Americans and their extraordinary contributions to American history. There will be prizes for all participants!
Wednesdays, February 1, 8, 15, 22
5pm
Far Rockaway
1003 Beach 20th Street
LOUIS ARMSTRONG HOUSE MUSEUM (VIRTUAL)
Louis Armstrong is still known as a legendary trumpeter and for hits such as “What a Wonderful World” and “Hello, Dolly!” but many folks do not know that he was a Civil Rights pioneer who was not afraid to put his career on the line to speak out against injustice. Join Ricky Riccardi, Director of Research Collections for Louis Armstrong, for a special Black History Month presentation on this important side of Armstrong. This is a virtual program.
Join on Webex: https://queenslib.org/3i4CgMS
Thursday, February 2
11am
MLK UNITY GARLAND (IN-PERSON)
This Black History Month, children can commemorate one of the greatest civil rights leaders, Martin Luther King Jr., with a simple paper chain that represents people of every background standing together in unity. All ages welcome, but recommended for ages 4+.
Thursday, February 2
2:30pm
Arverne
312 Beach 54 Street
TRIVIA THURSDAYS (IN-PERSON)
Come and celebrate Black History Month with us by playing trivia.
Thursdays, February 2, 9, 16, 23
2:30pm
Rosedale
144-20 243 Street
TEEN TRIVIA (IN-PERSON)
Celebrate Black History Month by testing your knowledge and learning about the accomplishments of African Americans and civil rights events.
Thursday, February 2
3:30pm
Arverne
312 Beach 54 Street
CURATOR’S CHOICE CINEMA (IN-PERSON)
The curator for the Black Heritage Reference Collection will be screening films made by Black artists on Thursdays at 5pm throughout Black History Month. Screenings will include “Black Nativity” (based on the play by Langston Hughes) and three August Wilson masterworks: “The Ground on Which I Stand” and the Pulitzer Prize Winners “Fences” and “The Piano Lesson.”
Thursdays, February 2, 9, 16, 23
5pm
Langston Hughes
100-01 Northern Boulevard
QUILTING CODES (IN-PERSON)
During the time of slavery in the United States, enslaved Black people who ran away to find freedom would allegedly use quilts encoded with messages to help guide them on their journey. Quilting groups, like Ebony Quilters of Southeast Queens and Quilt-N-Queens, have formed in Queens to keep the tradition of quilting alive. In this workshop, we will create our own collage versions of quilts encoded with messages to help guide us in these current times.
Thursday, February 2
5pm
Peninsula
92-25 Rockaway Beach Boulevard
FILM SCREENINGS (IN-PERSON)
Explore African American history and culture through film. Every Thursday in February, the Far Rockaway Library will screen a commemorative film and hold a discussion afterwards highlighting Black trailblazers.
Thursdays, February 2, 9, 16, 23
5pm
Far Rockaway
1003 Beach 20th Street
FILM FESTIVAL (IN-PERSON)
Join us in celebrating Black History through films. Every Thursday evening in February.
Thursdays, February 2, 9, 16, 23
5:30pm
Far Rockaway
1003 Beach 20th Street
MOVIE TIME: A CELEBRATION OF BLACK TALENT (IN-PERSON)
Come join us for Black History Month as we celebrate black talent in film. We will be showing the following movies: “Lean on Me,” “Nutty Professor,” “Wiz” and “Black Panther.”
Fridays, February 3, 10, 17, 24
12pm
Woodside
54-22 Skillman Avenue
FRIDAY AFTERNOON MOVIES (IN-PERSON)
Join us throughout February for some great movies in celebration of Black History Month!
Feb. 3: “Antebellum” (2016)
Feb. 10: “Harriet” (2019)
Feb. 17: “One Night in Miami” (2020)
Feb. 24: “Black Panther” (2018)
Fridays, February 3, 10, 17, 24
2pm
Forest Hills
108-19 71 Avenue
MLK TECH TIME (IN-PERSON)
Celebrate Black History Month by learning facts about Martin Luther King, Jr. while playing a tech game! Recommended for ages 6-11.
Friday, February 3
2:30pm
Arverne
312 Beach 54 Street
CRAFTS (IN-PERSON)
Join us at the Far Rockaway Library every Friday afternoon to highlight the artistic contributions of African Americans in history. Each week we will celebrate the remarkable achievements of African Americans while creating individual crafts. All are welcome!
Fridays, February 3, 10, 17, 24
3pm
Far Rockaway
1003 Beach 20th Street
MOVIE AFTERNOON PRESENTS; “TILL” (IN-PERSON)
“Till” is a profoundly emotional and cinematic film about the true story of Mamie Till Mobley’s relentless pursuit of justice for her 14-year-old son, Emmett Till, who, in 1955 was lynched while visiting his cousins in Mississippi. In Mamie’s poignant journey of grief turned to action, we see the universal power of a mother’s ability to change the world. Rated PG-13.
Friday, February 3
3pm
Howard Beach
92-06 156 Avenue
Saturday, February 11
2pm
Ozone Park
92-24 Rockaway Boulevard
SCAVENGER HUNT (IN-PERSON)
Celebrate Black History Month with a scavenger hunt.
Fridays, February 3, 10, 17, 24
3:30pm
Rosedale
144-20 243 Street
FUN FRIDAYS (IN-PERSON)
Join us on Fridays for something different each week! Games, crafts, science experiments, movies, or... who knows? The program is open for children ages 5-12. Although space is limited, pre-registration is not required.
2/3: Jute Basket Weaving
2/10: Black History Month Trivia
2/17: Flags of Resistance: DIY Flags
2/24: “Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile” Craft
Fridays, February 3, 10, 17, 24
4pm
Glen Oaks
256-04 Union Turnpike
BLACK HISTORY JEOPARDY (IN-PERSON)
This is JEOPARDY! Team up, answer Black History Month questions, win prizes! All ages welcome!
Friday, February 3
4pm
Corona
38-23 104 Street
BLACK HISTORY BINGO (IN-PERSON)
Join us to celebrate 50 extraordinary Black heroes with a fun game of Bingo. As you play, you’ll learn about Duke Ellington, Mary McLeod Bethune, Langston Hughes and more iconic artists, thinkers, activists, and beyond. Bring your own markers (such as pennies, buttons, or pebbles) to play.
Friday, February 3
4pm
Middle Village
72-31 Metropolitan Avenue
Tuesday, February 7
Wednesday, February 8
Thursday, February 9
2pm
Long Island City
37-44 21 Street
Tuesdays, February 7, 14, 21, 28
3:30pm
Elmhurst
86-07 Broadway
Thursday, February 16
2pm
Seaside
116-15 Rockaway Beach Boulevard
Thursday, February 16
3pm
North Hills
57-04 Marathon Parkway
Thursday, February 23
6pm
Kew Gardens Hills
72-33 Vleigh Place
Friday, February 24
2pm
Auburndale
25-55 Francis Lewis Boulevard
FAMILY STORYTIME (IN-PERSON)
Join us Saturdays in February for storytimes celebrating Black authors and illustrators.
Saturdays, February 4, 11, 18, 25
11:30am
Ridgewood
20-12 Madison Street
WALK-IN CRAFT (IN-PERSON)
Enjoy a simple, self-guided craft for children of all ages.
Saturdays, February 4, 11, 18, 25
2pm
Arverne
312 Beach 54 Street
BLACK HISTORY SCAVENGER HUNT (IN-PERSON)
Families, join us for a scavenger hunt in celebration of Black History Month. Each participating family will have to unlock messages in patent drawings, decode ancient hieroglyphics, solve math problems and follow along a STEAM-themed race to the finish line. This program is presented in collaboration with the Lewis Latimer House.
Saturday, February 4
2:30pm
South Jamaica
108-41 Guy R. Brewer Boulevard
Thursday, February 23
2:30pm
Baisley Park
117-11 Sutphin Boulevard
CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH: A TREASURY OF CLASSICAL VOCAL MUSIC WITH TENOR KRISTOPHER JEAN AND FRIENDS (IN-PERSON)
Enjoy a concert of classical vocal music of most beloved arias & art songs of famous composers: Mozart, Bellini, Donizetti, Rachmaninov. Popular music selection includes: “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” “Mister Snow from Carousel” by Rodgers & Hammerstein; a medley of George Gershwin favorites, and others.
Saturday, February 4
3pm
Briarwood
85-12 Main Street
CLASSIC R&B WITH THE SOULFUL SOUNDS OF THE DELLS REVUE (IN-PERSON)
Join us and recall the soulful sounds of The Dells Revue, with such memorable hits as “Stay in My Corner,” “The Love We Had Stays on My Mind,” “I’ll Never Hear the Bells” and much more. This tribute to the Dells features Petawane. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Saturday, February 4
3pm
Central Library
89-11 Merrick Boulevard
STEM CLUB (IN-PERSON)
For this series, we will learn about famous African American inventors such as Lewis H. Latimer and Mary W. Jackson and how they contributed to the STEM field. We will be diving into different hands-on projects, programming and more.
Saturdays, February 4, 11, 18, 25
2:30pm
Queensbridge Tech Lab
10-43 41 Avenue
BLACK HISTORY MONTH: “JUDAS AND THE BLACK MESSIAH” (IN-PERSON)
Offered a plea deal by the FBI, William O’Neal infiltrates the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party to gather intelligence on Chairman Fred Hampton. Come and enjoy the movie, full of drama.
Monday, February 6
10:30am
North Hills
57-04 Marathon Parkway
MOVIE TIME: “NOPE”
The film follows two siblings who run a horse ranch on the outskirts of Los Angeles, specializing in training horses for movies. But when they discover something wonderful and sinister in the skies above them, everyone tries to profit from the otherworldly phenomenon. Similar to Peele’s previous two films, this movie once again includes sharp satire with a commentary on human’s need for spectacle, through the lens of a spectacle itself.
Monday, February 6
10:30am
Windsor Park
79-50 Bell Boulevard
BIOGRAPHY (IN-PERSON)
Join us to learn more about African American individuals who resisted inequity.
Mondays, February 6, 13, 27
3pm
Far Rockaway
1003 Beach 20th Street
THE ROLE OF BUTTONS IN SOCIAL JUSTICE MOVEMENTS (IN-PERSON)
Pins, buttons, and badges played an instrumental role in the Civil Rights Movement. Since these items could be quickly and cheaply made, bought, and sold, they were a popular way to express one’s politics. To celebrate Black History Month, children and teens can collage and create their own buttons to reflect their beliefs and opinions.
Mondays, February 6, 27
3:30pm
Rochdale Village
169-09 137 Avenue
Wednesday, February 8
2:30pm
Sunnyside
43-06 Greenpoint Avenue
Friday, February 10
4:30pm
Briarwood
85-12 Main Street
Tuesday, February 28
4pm
Glen Oaks
256-04 Union Turnpike
ART WORKSHOP: THE FACE OF AFROFUTURISM WITH IDA OWENS (IN-PERSON)
Children in Grades 4-8 are invited to learn about Afrofuturism. Using inspiration from Afrocentric films, music, and images, participants will get to engage with mixed media materials to develop and create their own Afrofuturistic face collage. This engaging program will also include conversations to reflect on the current state of social affairs and justice—giving participants an opportunity to respond creatively and consider solutions for a brighter future.
Tuesday, February 7
3:30pm
Ridgewood
20-12 Madison Street
Wednesday, February 8
3:30pm
Peninsula
92-25 Rockaway Beach Boulevard
Saturday, February 18
3:30pm
Rochdale Village
169-09 137 Avenue
SANKOFA SERIES: CURATOR’S CHOICE (VIRTUAL)
Join us Tuesdays at 4pm as we learn about, explore, and discuss Black history, arts, and much more. This series is charged with raising awareness and sparking thought-provoking conversation in celebration of Black culture.
Register at: https://tinyurl.com/4686cjau
Tuesdays, February 7, 14, 21, 28
4pm
WUKKOUT! AND DANCE! (IN-PERSON)
Join Wukkout! founder Krista Martins and her crew for an in-person set of fitness dance classes. Irresistible beats will make you want to get up and move. Classes will be moderately active and accompanied by Afro-Caribbean music. This program is for teens and adults.
Wednesday, February 8
11am
East Elmhurst
95-06 Astoria Boulevard
Thursday, February 9
6pm
Central Library
89-11 Merrick Boulevard
Thursday, February 16
6pm
South Jamaica
108-41 Guy R. Brewer Boulevard
Thursday, February 23
6pm
Queens Village
94-11 217 Street
Saturday, February 25
2pm
Seaside
116-15 Rockaway Beach Boulevard
Monday, February 27
11am
Pomonok
158-21 Jewel Avenue
JUST ABOVE MIDTOWN (AKA JAM) ART GALLERY: ART HISTORY LECTURE WITH MOMA EDUCATOR JENNIFER KATANIC (VIRTUAL)
Just Above Midtown—or JAM—was an art gallery and self-described laboratory led by Linda Goode Bryant that foregrounded African American artists and artists of color. Open from 1974 until 1986, it was a place where Black art flourished and debate was cultivated. Senga Nengudi has described JAM’s energy as “vibrating,” a space where artists “were given carte blanche, and there were no restrictions.” It organized exhibitions that explored the idea of artistic and racial mixture, encouraged collaborations between artists, and offered a space for community and professional development that left a legacy embodied by its manifesto: “to use what we have to create what we need.” This is a virtual program presented by MoMA educator Jennifer Katanic.
Join on Webex: https://queenslib.org/3GIs470
Wednesday, February 8
1pm
FLAGS OF RESISTANCE (IN-PERSON)
Signs, posters, and flags have played an essential role in spreading the message of protest and resistance. Decorate blank mini flags with symbols and words that reflect your own values and resistance.
Wednesday, February 8
4pm
Langston Hughes
100-01 Northern Boulevard
Wednesday, February 8
4pm
Whitestone
151-10 14 Road
Friday, February 10
4pm
Corona
38-23 104 Street
Wednesday, February 15
3pm
North Hills
57-04 Marathon Parkway
Thursday, February 16
3pm
Maspeth
69-70 Grand Avenue
Friday, February 17
3:30pm
Astoria
14-01 Astoria Boulevard
Friday, February 17
4pm
Glen Oaks
256-04 Union Turnpike
Wednesday, February 22
2pm
Auburndale
25-55 Francis Lewis Boulevard
JERRY PINKNEY STORYTIME AND LION CRAFT FOR KIDS (IN-PERSON)
In remembrance of children’s author Jerry Pinkney, we will read aloud his stories, and make crafts in the shape of lions. For children, ages 8-12.
Wednesday, February 8
4pm
Forest Hills
108-19 71 Avenue
TO ENDURE AND TRANSCEND: THE BLUES AND SONGS OF THE SPIRIT (IN-PERSON) (VIRTUAL)
Singer, songwriter, and slide guitarist Pat Wictor will present a concert of blues and gospel songs. The blues, which emerged in rural and urban African American communities around the turn of the 20th century, is more than a musical form. It is music that, like its close cousin gospel music, acknowledges the struggle of life and invites us to persevere and overcome. In this concert, Pat will present songs influenced by blues and gospel traditions, and songs on the broader themes of enduring and transcending. This is a live performance with the option to join virtually on zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting: https://queenslib.org/3v7mJPS
By Phone: 929 436 2866
Access Code: 827 1629 0786
Passcode: 0208
Wednesday, February 8
4pm
Flushing
41-17 Main Street
KENTE CLOTH (IN-PERSON)
Celebrate Black History Month by making a paper replica of Kente cloth, a colorful fabric from West Africa, and gain appreciation for the Black artists who make it. All ages welcome, but recommended for children, ages 4+.
Thursday, February 9
2:30pm
Arverne
312 Beach 54 Street
JARS OF LIGHT (IN-PERSON)
Lewis Latimer was a Black inventor, draftsman, and poet who lived in Queens and is most known for improving the process of creating carbon filaments for light bulbs. Lewis Latimer was the son of a fugitive enslaved Black man named George Latimer. Inspired by both of their stories, in this workshop, we will make our own art “light bulbs” using jars, filling them with art and poetry “filaments” about resistance and liberation. Attendees are invited to bring items they would like to add to their jars.
Thursday, February 9
3:30pm
Bayside
214-20 Northern Boulevard
JUTE BASKET WEAVING FOR TEENS AND ADULTS (IN-PERSON)
Basket weaving is an ancient art form that is decorative, symbolic, and functional. Join us as we learn about sweetgrass basket weaving, and then create our own little baskets.
Thursday, February 9
3:30pm
Arverne
312 Beach 54 Street
Thursday, February 9
5pm
Howard Beach
92-06 156 Avenue
Thursday, February 9
6pm
Kew Gardens Hills
72-33 Vleigh Place
Friday, February 10
4:30pm
South Jamaica
108-41 Guy R. Brewer Boulevard
Saturday, February 11
2pm
Forest Hills
108-19 71 Avenue
Wednesday, February 15
11:30am, 3:30pm
Hillcrest
187-05 Union Turnpike
Wednesday, February 15
3pm
Sunnyside
43-06 Greenpoint Avenue
Wednesday, February 15
4pm
Langston Hughes
100-01 Northern Boulevard
Thursday, February 16
3pm
Ridgewood
20-12 Madison Street
Thursday, February 16
4pm
Baisley Park
117-11 Sutphin Boulevard
Thursday, February 16
6pm
Queens Village
94-11 217 Street
Friday, February 17
4pm
Bellerose
250-06 Hillside Avenue
Wednesday, February 22
3:30pm
Windsor Park
79-50 Bell Boulevard
Thursday, February 23
2:30pm
Arverne
312 Beach 54 Street
Friday, February 24
11am
Bayside
214-20 Northern Boulevard
FAMILY LEGACY AND MEMORY BOX (IN-PERSON)
Do you have photos, cards, and other special documents you’d like to preserve for your records or to share with family? QPL can help! You and your family are invited to bring mementos to the library to make a family legacy and memory box. This special keepsake is perfect for honoring memories, past and future. We’ll also provide a list of questions for children to ask adults about family history. Plus, get assistance scanning your treasured materials, then get a free flash drive to store and share them with loved ones.
Thursday, February 9
4pm
Astoria
14-01 Astoria Boulevard
Saturday, February 11
2pm
Cambria Heights
218-13 Linden Boulevard
Friday, February 17
4pm
Corona
38-23 104 Street
Monday, February 27
4pm
Flushing
41-17 Main Street
Tuesday, February 28
4pm
St. Albans
191-05 Linden Boulevard
WHAT RESISTANCE MEANS IN OUR COMMUNITY (IN-PERSON)
Black resistance has a long history in the United States. The movement’s strategies and philosophies have been an inspiration to other communities (across class and cultural lines) in the fight against oppression and inequity in this country. What does resistance mean to you and your community? How have you stood up for yourself and others to make changes in actions, behaviors, and policy? Share your experiences and bring in a photo to represent your own opposition of discrimination.
Thursday, February 9
5pm
South Jamaica
108-41 Guy R. Brewer Boulevard
Saturday, February 25
2:30pm
Briarwood
85-12 Main Street
Tuesday, February 28
10am
Ridgewood
20-12 Madison Street
Tuesday, February 28
1pm
Poppenhusen
121-23 14 Avenue
HISTORY OF NEGRO LEAGUES BASEBALL (IN-PERSON)
Local author and historian Philip Ross presents the history of baseball’s Negro Leagues (as they were called), plus the extraordinary Black athletes and teams of that era. Mr. Ross will draw upon his lengthy research and interviews with dozens of former players, many of whom have become close friends. This program is sponsored by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Hearst Foundation.
Thursday, February 9
6pm
St. Albans
191-05 Linden Boulevard
Saturday, February 25
1pm
Laurelton
134-26 225 Street
BLACK EXCELLENCE (VIRTUAL)
Presenter Steven Lance will lead a discussion about some incredible Black people and groups from the entertainment business, science and industry. He will also focus on the military’s famous unit known as the “Tuskegee Airmen” (whom the movie “Red Tails” was based off). Please join us for an entertaining, informative, enlightening and inspirational program.
Join here.
By phone: +1-408-418-9388
Access code: 23492628293
Friday, February 10
10am
SHADES OF TRUTH THEATER PRESENTS THE MEETING (IN-PERSON)
Two men… two strategies… one goal. This one-act play depicts a fictional meeting in Harlem between two of America’s best known civil and human rights activists, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X, during the height of the Civil Rights Movement. Their sometimes-opposing philosophies become evident as they debate their respective approaches to pressing social issues.
Saturday, February 11
1:30pm
Central Library
89-11 Merrick Boulevard
Saturday, February 25
1:30pm
Hunters Point
47-40 Center Boulevard
ANNUAL LANGSTON HUGHES DAY CELEBRATION (IN-PERSON)
Join us for our Annual Langston Hughes Day celebration with poetry by the Harlem Writers Guild, a theatrical performance by David Mills of The Dreamweaver, a dramatic presentation of Langston Hughes’s work, and musical performance by the Don Hanson Quartet.
Saturday, February 11
2pm-5pm
Langston Hughes
100-01 Northern Boulevard
AFRICAN DANCE AND HIP HOP WITH URBAN STAGES (IN-PERSON)
In this class for the family, Fritzlyn Hector will share how African dance and music are essential in the evolution of hip-hop dance. By way of demonstration and participation, viewers will experience how connected African dance movements are to hip hop dance movements. Everyone will learn a few African and hip hop dance steps along the way too. For children ages 6-12 and families. This program is funded by NYC Council Member Gennaro.
Monday, February 13
3:30pm
Pomonok
158-21 Jewel Avenue
BLACK HISTORY ELECTRONIC RESOURCES (VIRTUAL)
An overview of African American history, culture, religion, and more, using electronic databases and other online sources. Join the session from this link: https://queenslib.org/3wFAi9C
Tuesday, February 14
11am
CRAFT AND ACTIVITY FOR CHILDREN (IN-PERSON)
Children will do a craft and activity in honor of Black History Month and Valentine’s Day. For children ages 3 and up.
Tuesday, February 14
4pm
East Flushing
196-36 Northern Boulevard
AFRICAN MASK PAINTING (IN-PERSON)
Celebrate Black History Month as you paint beautiful ceramic African masks. Recommended for ages 6-11.
Thursday, February 16
2:30pm
Arverne
312 Beach 54 Street
STORYTIME (IN-PERSON)
Listen to stories written by and about important figures in African American history.
Thursday, February 16
3:30pm
Woodside
54-22 Skillman Avenue
READING THE PERSONAL LIBRARIAN BY MARIE BENEDICT (IN-PERSON)
For Black History Month, we will be reading The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict. Ask the librarian for more information and pick up your copy at Windsor Park Library!
Thursday, February 16
5pm
Windsor Park
79-50 Bell Boulevard
HIP HOP FASHION: FRESH, FLY, AND FABULOUS (IN-PERSON)
Join us for a hip hop book talk! Fresh Fly Fabulous: 50 Years of Hip Hop Style is a must-read for music, fashion, and style fans, and authors Elena Romero and Elizabeth Way are here to tell us all about it. This program will be hosted by QPL Hip Hop Coordinator Ralph McDaniels.
Thursday, February 16
5:30pm
Central Library
89-11 Merrick Boulevard
THE GREEN: CULTIVATING PHYSICAL AND DIGITAL LANDSCAPES OF FREEDOM (IN-PERSON)
The Green was a Black community and farm in Jamaica, Queens founded by William Rantous in the 19th century after the abolition of slavery in New York. In The Green, Rantous advocated for abolition, racial equality, and education activism. In this workshop, we will respond to a series of prompts inspired by the story of The Green to think about how we can design and cultivate spaces of healing and community both in the offline and online world and in the face of discrimination and marginalization.
Thursday, February 16
6pm
Rochdale Village
169-09 137 Avenue
AFRICAN AMERICAN INFLUENCES ON POPULAR MUSIC BY RICHARD NICHOLSON (IN-PERSON) (VIRTUAL)
This concert will highlight the important role played by African Americans in the creation and development of what are among the most listened-to genres of American popular music: Jazz, Blues, and Rhythm and Blues (R&B). The group will perform songs from each of these three American musical genres, which will be preceded by an oral presentation of the cultural phenomena that led to the creation of each genre. This program will be a live presentation with the option for the audience to join virtually.
Join Zoom Meeting: https://queenslib.org/3C71uRS
By Phone: 929-436-2866
Access Code: 844 7227 9887
Passcode: 0216
Thursday, February 16
6pm
Flushing
41-17 Main Street
MLK JEOPARDY (IN-PERSON)
Kids will learn facts about one of Black history’s greatest leaders through a fun game of Jeopardy!
Friday, February 17
2:30pm
Arverne
312 Beach 54 Street
MOVIE SCREENING: MARVEL’S BLACK PANTHER (IN-PERSON)
Join us for a screening of the Marvel movie, Black Panther, starring Chadwick Boseman.
Saturday, February 18
12pm
Corona
38-23 104 Street
NEW HERITAGE THEATRE PRESENTS WHEN GOLD TURNS TO BLACK (IN-PERSON)
Tommie Smith and John Carlos, heralded world-class athletes, protest racism and injustice at the 1968 Olympics with a powerful, symbolic gesture that would define a movement and inspire generations.
Saturday, February 18
1:30pm
Central Library
89-11 Merrick Boulevard
FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE (IN-PERSON)
Inspired by the film Hidden Figures, join us to consider the challenges and successes faced by the Black women mathematicians who worked at NASA during the Space Race. We’ll watch clips of the movie and kick off an engaging group discussion. Share your impressions of the story and the characters’ extraordinary innovations.
Saturday, February 18
2pm
Astoria
14-01 Astoria Boulevard
QUEENSBORO DANCE FESTIVAL PRESENTS THE KINGDOM DANCE COMPANY (IN-PERSON)
Through live performance and cultural discussion, this Queens-based hip hop group ties old school 90s dance styles into the hip hop we know today via social media and TikTok. The company will demonstrate line dance and elements of hip hop and show how they correlate with how hip hop was created. They are part of the Queensboro Dance Festival that will tour throughout Queens this summer with free outdoor performances.
Saturday, February 18
3pm
Cambria Heights
218-13 Linden Boulevard
SHEEP MEADOW DANCE THEATRE
Come join the ballerinas of this Queens-based ballet company to learn about the history of classical ballet. Family friendly and fun for all, they’ll delight you with their swans and sugarplums. They are part of the Queensboro Dance Festival that will tour throughout Queens this summer with free outdoor performances.
Saturday, February 18
3pm
Glen Oaks
256-04 Union Turnpike
SOCIAL JUSTICE COLLAGE PINS (IN-PERSON)
Create Social Justice Collage pins to honor Black History Month and the pioneers of the movement. Learn how to design and create a pin that advocates for your beliefs, ideas, and goals for the future, just like these pins have been used in the past!
Saturday, February 18
4pm
Woodside
54-22 Skillman Avenue
THE ART OF AARON DOUGLAS CRAFT PROJECT (IN-PERSON)
Join us as we view the art of Aaron Douglas and create your own art inspired by his works.
Tuesday, February 21
4pm
Woodhaven
85-41 Forest Parkway
STORYTIME AND CRAFT FOR KIDS (IN-PERSON)
Children will learn about the wives of famous Black Leaders and will make a simple craft. You will also hear stories about inclusion and Black History.
Wednesday, February 22
3:30pm
Forest Hills
108-19 71 Avenue
GEE’S BEND QUILT COLLAGE (IN-PERSON)
Since the 19th century, the women of Gee’s Bend have created hundreds of magnificent quilts made out of scraps of fabric, no piece going to waste. Learn about these inventive, resourceful women and be inspired to create your own vibrant and unique quilt collage.
Wednesday, February 22
4pm
Langston Hughes
100-01 Northern Boulevard
LITERARY THURSDAYS: MEET AMINA LUQMAN-DAWSON, AUTHOR OF FREEWATER (VIRTUAL)
Author Amina Luqman-Dawson has written Freewater, a lyrical and accessible middle-grade novel that just won the 2023 Coretta Scott King Author Award and the 2023 Newbery Medal! The story tells of two enslaved children’s escape from a plantation, their discovery of a clandestine maroon community, and the many ways they find freedom. Our discussion with Luqman-Dawson will highlight the historical inspiration for her novel and how stories build an understanding of race, culture, and community.
Join us on Zoom: https://queenslib.org/3ke7eTT
Thursday, February 23
6pm
SEVEN BLACK ARTISTS: AN ART HISTORY LECTURE WITH MARY DONO (VIRTUAL)
Join us for an intellectually and creatively stimulating virtual art history presentation with educator Mary Dono. The brilliant Black artists we’ll discuss include: Faith Ringgold; Horace Pippin; Laura Wheeler Waring; James Van Der Zee; Augusta Savage; Simmie Knox; and Kara Walker.
Join on Webex: https://queenslib.org/3i6Nctf
Friday, February 24
2pm
TECH TIME TRIVIA (IN-PERSON)
Children will test their knowledge and learn more about Black history through an interactive technology trivia game.
Friday, February 24
2:30pm
Arverne
312 Beach 54 Street
SHRINKY DINK PINS FOR TEENS (IN-PERSON)
Join us at the library to create a work of art that celebrates Black History with a one-of-a-kind design!
Friday, February 24
4pm
Woodside
54-22 Skillman Avenue
CULTURE CONNECTION: RIOTSVILLE, U.S.A. (VIRTUAL)
QPL’s Culture Connection is honored to host a virtual screening (2/20/23 through 2/27/23) of Sierra Pettengill's critically acclaimed documentary Riotsville, U.S.A. (2022). Using footage shot by the media and the government, Pettengill's film explores the militarization of the police and the reaction of a nation to the uprisings of the late '60s, and creates a counter-narrative to a critical moment in our country's history. Connecting the stagecraft of “law and order” to the real violence of state practice, Riotsville, U.S.A. is a poetic and furious reflection on the rebellions of the 1960s–and the machine that worked to destroy them.
Link: https://www.filmplatform.net/events/riotsville-usa-queens-public-library/
Invitation Code (case-sensitive and contains a single dash): RUQ-QPL
Monday, February 20-Monday, February 27
LIBRARIES AND LIBERATION OPEN MIC (IN-PERSON)
Libraries, both formal and informal, have been central to movements of resistance. Inspired by the history of the Langston Hughes Library, which was founded as an experimental library in 1969 through community activism, and Black-founded mobile libraries today from Queens like J. Expressions, Reading 4 Black Lives, and Lena’s Library, we will have an open mic to promote the future of libraries and reading collections that represent a diversity of voices.
Saturday, February 25
12pm
Langston Hughes
100-01 Northern Boulevard
FILM SCREENING AND DISCUSSION: DAUGHTERS OF THE DUST
Join us for the 1991 film Daughters of the Dust. In 1902 on Saint Helena Island, South Carolina, three generations of Gullah descendants are preparing to relocate from their quaint, familiar enclave to the mainland. It is a cheerful decision for some but gut-wrenching for others. Following the movie, there will be a discussion about Gullah Culture and its history of resistance.
Saturday, February 25
2pm
Cambria Heights
218-13 Linden Boulevard
LOUIS ARMSTRONG AND CIVIL RIGHTS (IN-PERSON)
During his lifetime, Louis Armstrong was lauded as a brilliant trumpeter and vocalist but behind his smiling “Satchmo” stage persona, he was also a major civil rights pioneer. In this multimedia presentation, Ricky Riccardi, Director of Research Collections for the Louis Armstrong House Museum, will share rare images, audio, and video to explain how Armstrong broke down barriers for his race throughout his career, including putting his career on the line to speak out against injustice during the Little Rock school integration crisis in 1957.
Saturday, February 25
3pm
Glen Oaks
256-04 Union Turnpike
REELBLACK FILMS; STEREOTYPES: THE ROOTS OF RACISM (IN-PERSON)
Join us to view Stereotypes: The Roots of Racism (2023). Using examples from literature, radio, theater, television, and the big screen, Charles Woods explores how stereotypes have negatively impacted the image of African Americans.
Saturday, February 25
3pm
Langston Hughes
100-01 Northern Boulevard
HIP HOP 50 NATIONAL CELEBRATION KICK-OFF WITH CHUCK D (IN-PERSON)
In honor of Hip Hop's 50th Anniversary, Queens Public Library is thrilled to welcome author, musical artist, and producer Chuck D! His new PBS docuseries, "Fight the Power: How Hip Hop Changed the World," focuses on the origin stories of hip hop so we can learn from the people who were there at the beginning. This program will be hosted by QPL Hip Hop Coordinator Ralph McDaniels.
Monday, February 27
5pm
Central Library
89-11 Merrick Boulevard
BEAT THE BLUES CONCERTS: THE GENTLEMEN OF SOUL (VIRTUAL)
This Queens-based band is known for their performances of Soul, R&B, and Party Music. The Gentlemen of Soul is comprised of three vocalists – Scout Ford, Martinez Little, and Lorenzo Bell – backed by a four-piece band. Their power-packed performances include songs from great musical eras like Philly Soul (Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, Teddy Pendergrass, The O'Jays), Motown (Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie), Disco (Earth, Wind & Fire, Tavares, Kool & the Gang), New Jack Swing & 90s R&B (Luther Vandross, Bell Biv Devoe, Brian McKnight, Babyface) and many more. Join us for a wonderful evening of music!
Watch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/QPLNYC
Monday, February 27
7pm
