Books to Read During Black History Month and Beyond

Posted on January 30, 2019

by April S

Black History Month

Black History Month (known officially in the United States as African American History Month) is celebrated annually in February, paying tribute to the generations of African-Americans who struggled with adversity to achieve full citizenship in American society.

Historian Carter G. Woodson created Negro History Week, which was first celebrated in February 1926, during the week that encompassed the birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. In 1976, the celebration was expanded to encompass the entire month of February by President Gerald R. Ford and since then every American president has issued African American History Month proclamations.

Learn More About African-American History

Library of Congress
The Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum join in paying tribute to the generations of African Americans who struggled with adversity to achieve full citizenship in American society.

National Museum of African American History and Culture
The only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture. It was established by Act of Congress in 2003, following decades of efforts to promote and highlight the contributions of African Americans.

National Archives
A wealth of material documenting the African American experience, paying tribute to the struggles and achievements of the people and events that have shaped our nation.

Scholastic
Resources for teachers, parents and caregivers for children grades 1-8.

Reading Rockets
Authors, books, activities, videos, history guides and additional resources.

Read-In

February is Black History Month, and we’re celebrating in part with a read-in (and many other great programs)! Read, listen or watch ANY title from ANY African-American author and add your name to the banner at your favorite branch.

Feb. 1 – 28 | All branches | All ages