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Black History Month 2026

A gallery of images overlays a black background. The images include book covers, movie posters, portraits of speakers, historical photographs, and artwork.

Commemorate Black History Month at the library and learn about the impact of Black Richmonders on the history and culture of our region, create art inspired by influential Black artists, listen to African folktales, and more. Read on for our full list of upcoming performances, book discussions, film screenings, and lectures, as well as some highlights from our collection.

 

PROGRAMS

  • The Valentine Museum Presents: Soul of a Community
    • Wednesday, February 4, 6-7PM at Varina
    • During this Black History Month, learn about how Black Richmonders have redefined the River City and inspired a region and nation. The Valentine, Richmond's only museum focused on the history and culture of the city, will be presenting this topic.
  • Bright Star Theatre: Black History Hall of Fame
    • Friday, February 13, 10-11AM at Libbie Mill
    • Friday, February 13, 4-5PM at Tuckahoe
    • Saturday, February 14, 11AM-12PM at Fairfield
    • So many amazing Americans and so little time to meet them all! Follow along with professional acting troupe Bright Star Theatre as they take us on an amazing journey through Black History to meet Maya Angelou, Aretha Franklin, Mae Jemison, the Buffalo Soldiers and more.
  • History Bingo: Henrico Black History Month Edition
    • Saturday, February 14, 12-2PM at Fairfield
    • In this featured Black History Month event, learn more about Black Henrico History in this game of BINGO. Come for the fun and prizes, and leave with knowledge of how Black Henricoans contributed to our past, shape our present, and will impact our future. Program held in partnership with Henrico County Recreation and Parks, History Division.
  • From the Motherland: The Legends and Tales of Africa
    • Saturday, February 14, 2-3PM at Libbie Mill
    • The continent of Africa is diverse with its own unique set of mythology, legends, and folktales that were inspired by the sea. A historian from the Mariners' Museum will share stories and elements shared between the cultures that still reverberate in today’s pop culture through movies and television.
  • From Invisibility to Political Activism: the Black Experience in American Art
    • Saturday, February 14, 2-4PM at Fairfield
    • In this featured Black History Month event, Dr. Evie Terrono, Professor of Art History at Randolph-Macon College, will look at works by African American artists from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and other collections, as the means of resistance and political activism aiming to dismantle racial prejudice and celebrate multilayered African American identities. This program is supported in part by the Paul Mellon Endowment and the Jean Stafford Camp Memorial Fund. Additional sponsorship provided by the Friends of Henrico County Public Library.
  • Bold and Colorful Art
    • For Kids (ages 4-10): Tuesday, February 17, 10:30-11:30AM at Glen Allen
    • For Teens (grades 6-12): Tuesday, February 17, 4-5PM at Glen Allen
    • Create a bold and colorful work of art inspired by Alma Woodsey Thomas, the first Black woman to have her work added to the White House Collection of Art. All supplies will be provided.
  • Teen Art Studio: Resilience is Black Art
    • Tuesday, February 17, 6-8PM at Varina
    • For this edition of Teen Art Studio, we will explore Black brilliance, artistic innovation, and creativity to commemorate Black History Month. Engage in some fun, hands-on cultural activities! All artistic skill levels are welcome, and materials will be provided. Books will be available for checkout to continue learning at home.
  • Discovery/Rediscovery of the Forgotten Story of the Richmond 34
    • Tuesday, February 17, 6:30-7:30PM at Twin Hickory
    • The 1960 Richmond Sit-in is considered by some historians to be a significant event in Virginia’s Civil Rights Movement. On February 22, 1960, 34 college students were arrested during a sit-in protest at a department store in Richmond. This event contributed to social, political, and economic changes in the city and state. The protest is noted for its role in mobilizing community efforts toward desegregation and influencing local political dynamics. Although its impact received limited attention for many years, recent discussions have highlighted its significance in the history of civil rights. Presented by: Kimberly A. Matthews, Ph.D.
  • Prince Edward County Virginia and the School Desegregation Story
    • Wednesday, February 18, 6:30-7:30PM at Tuckahoe
    • Professor of History at VCU, Dr. Brian Daugherity, will discuss his original research on the Prince Edward County school desegregation story. He is currently co-writing a "Special History Study" for the National Park Service on this important topic.
  • Art in the Style of Black Giants
    • Thursday, February 19, 4-5PM at North Park
    • Create art similar to Jean-Michel Basquiat, Gordon Parks, Kehinde Wiley - or - a unique style all your own. Also, see books by Black illustrators to further inspire your creations. Art materials will be supplied. 
  • The Underground Railroad to Mexico
    • Saturday, February 28, 1-2PM at Twin Hickory
    • Join us for a powerful and eye-opening presentation that explores a lesser-known chapter of American history—the courageous path freedom seekers took southward to Mexico, escaping slavery in the United States. Virginia Commonwealth University professor Anita Nadal will cover and lead a thoughtful discussion about:
      • How enslaved individuals defied the odds to reach freedom in Mexico
      • The role Mexico played in resisting slavery after its abolition in 1829
      • The broader legacy of the Underground Railroad

BOOK DISCUSSIONS

  • Book Discussion – King: A Life
    • Feb. 4, 6-7PM at Sandston, a discussion of parts I & II
    • Feb. 18, 6-7PM at Sandston, a discussion of part III

COLLECTION

Below are just a handful of recommended reads. Browse our entire collection to find more Black voices and stories during February and beyond.  

PICTURE BOOKS

KIDS

TEENS

ADULTS

Nonfiction:

Fiction:

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