“Freedom is Never Given. It is Won.” Celebrate Black History Month at the Birmingham Public Library!

A. H. Randolf’s quotation embodies a philosophy embraced by a multitude of African Americans because they understood that change and progress were possible given unrelenting determination. He is one of many black Americans who made this approach a reality. Please join the Birmingham Public Library for numerous opportunities to learn about, be entertained by, and reflect upon the significant strides made by African Americans. More than 40 programs are scheduled at the Central Library and 18 branches. If dates and times are not given below, please Contact Mia Rutledge at (205)226-3604 for more information as some events will be repeated at different branches.

The “Way Back Machine” Visits History: African Americans and the Civil War
A one-hour, fast-paced event incorporating story telling, props, music, and interactive games to explore the concept of history as it relates to Civil War through the Civil Rights Movement. The audience may participate in a game of “Now and Then,” matching people, places, and events to time periods. Presented by Cassandra Scott. Grades 3-6. Contact Mia Rutledge at (205)226-3604 for more information.

The Science of Dr. George Washington Carver: A Hands-on Experience
Elinor Burks from the Ujima Math & Science Initiative will offer hands-on science experiments based on the work of Dr. George Washington Carver. Don’t miss the opportunity to recreate the science of an American genius. Peanuts will be a part of this program. Grades 3-9. Contact Mia Rutledge at (205)226-3604 for more information.

Alabama School of Fine Arts Performs Music in Celebration of Black History Month
Central Library
Wednesday, February 9 at noon in the Arrington Auditorium
Brown Bag Lunch Series
In honor of Black History Month, students from the Chorus, String Orchestra, and Jazz Combos at the Alabama School of Fine Arts will perform traditional African American scores, including Hold On and Soon I Will Be Done. You bring lunch and we’ll provide fabulous music and beverages!

My Adult Journey: A Memoir of the First African American to Preside over the
Alabama Board of Education
Central Library
Wednesday, February 16 at noon in the Arrington Auditorium
Brown Bag Lunch Series
Dr. Ethel Hall recounts the little “journeys” throughout her life which prepared her to become the first African American woman elected to the Alabama State Board of Education. Her experiences with racial tension, discrimination, and poverty are interspersed with portraits of the family and love which transformed her from a farmer’s daughter—determined to achieve the higher education others thought to be impossible—to a dedicated mother and educator, and even further to a statewide political leader. Bring your lunch and we’ll provide the drinks!

Looking at First Leaders
Central Library
Wednesday, February 23 at noon in the Arrington Auditorium
Brown Bag Lunch Series
Barbara Sirmans, former director of the Birmingham Public Library, will discuss the opportunities and challenges of being the first black library director in Birmingham and how life prepared her to meet accompanying obstacles and deterrents. Recently retired as director, Mrs. Sirmans remains an active part of the library community as a member of the Friends of the Library and continues her journey as a library advocate. Drinks provided. Just bring your lunch!

Center Stage : Cassandra Scott
Five Points West Library, 4812 Avenue W.
Monday, February 7 at 6:30 p.m.
Scott will present a tribute to African American History through story and song. Call 205-226-4013 for more information.

Center Stage: J.D. Jackson, Accompanied by Pernell Cunningham: An African American History Concert
Five Points West Library, 4812 Avenue W.
Saturday, February 12 at 2 p.m.
The program Mincemeat Pie will feature a variety of musical genres, including spirituals, gospels, and blues. Call 205-226-4013 for more information.