31 Jan MPL to Celebrate Black History Month with Special Programs Throughout February

February is Black History Month, a time to learn and reflect on the richness of Black history, culture, and contributions that have profoundly shaped our society.

Black History Month serves as a reminder of the resilience and creativity that has emerged from the Black community, despite historical challenges. It is an opportunity to educate ourselves and others about the triumphs and struggles faced by Black individuals throughout history.

This year, the Muskogee Public Library is proud to honor the achievements and contributions of Black individuals and communities. We believe one way to do so is by highlighting and celebrating individuals within our own communities who have forged and cultivated spaces where conversations can be explored and exchanged, and expression can inspire and empower.

Throughout February, Muskogee Public library will host a series of events for several ages aimed at exploring and celebrating Black history and art.

A few of our events include an all-age inclusive mini-museum from Monday, Feb. 10 to Friday, Feb. 14, celebrating Black inventors and creatives, a poetry workshop with award-winning Author Mary B. Gray on Thursday, Feb. 13 from 4- 6 p.m., and a true-story film screening of “Hidden Figures” on Feb. 20 from 4-6 p.m.

We invite all community members to engage and participate in this initiative in fostering a spirit of collaborative discovery and inclusivity. If you can’t make it to these events this February, don’t worry. We have several resources available so you can celebrate your way.

Through a library membership, you gain free access to Hoopla and Libby where you can access TV shows, movies, e-books and more. We also have databases and staff to help you research Black history (and any other topic of interest). And as always, we have books for all ages.

As the Oklahoma Historical Society eloquently coined, “Black history is Oklahoma history.” We encourage everyone to take part in this important month of reflection and action.

Together, we can honor the legacy of past leaders while cultivating a future where every voice is valued and heard. So come on out, you are invited to learn, grow, and have fun.

For more information on our events and initiatives during Black History Month, please visit eols.org/events or follow us on Facebook and on Instagram @muskogeepl.

Moriah Contino is a library assistant at Muskogee Public Library, a branch of the Eastern Oklahoma Library System.