Black History Month Programs Underway at Titusville Branch Library

At Titusville Connection Artist Showcase, L-R: Birmingham City Councilor Crystal Smitherman, Titusville Library Branch Manager Reba Williams and Jefferson County Commissioner Sheila Tyson.

Councilor Crystal Smitherman

Jefferson County Commissioner Sheila Tyson

Titusville Branch Library's 2022 Black History Month programs kicked off last week with our weekly crochet design class, bi-weekly arts craft and board games, and a powerful artist showcase celebrating local artists and authors from the community.

The programs are among 71 Black History month events and activities being held throughout February at 15 Birmingham Public Library locations.

Titusville Library's highlight so far was last week's Black History artist celebration in which over 20 authors and artists were able to talk about their books and artwork before a packed crowd, and to enjoy a free meal and networking together.

During the February 2 event, Jefferson County Commissioner Sheila Tyson (District 2) and Birmingham City Councilor Crystal Smitherman - a Titusville native - both pledged their financial support to Titusville Branch Library and other libraries in their districts.

Tyson, who represents District 2 and is a former Birmingham City Councilwoman and former president of the West End Community, told attendees she is donating $10,000 in county funds to Titusville Library buy books written by Black authors.

Councilor Smitherman, who is President Pro-tem (second only to Council President Wardine Alexander), commended Titusville Library for being "a great community partner and resource to the community" through the free programs it provides to citizens, such as its monthly Titusville community food drive and diaper giveaway.

Titusville Library Branch Manager Reba Williams thanked Councilor Smitherman and Commissioner Tyson for their valuable support of Titusville Library and other libraries in their districts.

For a listing of other Black History Month programs Titusville Library is offering during February, see below:

Embroidery: Black History Crochet Designs

Every Tuesday in February (February 16, 23)| Starts at 11:00 a.m.

Join the Titusville Library Crochet Club and learn how to crochet different designs. Then, put your skills into practice and create Black History Month patterns. Materials are provided.

Titusville Adults Arts and Crafts/Games Craze

Every second and fourth Tuesday (February 23)| From 9:00 a.m.—6:00 p.m.

Adults feel free to come and see what the arts and crafts and games are all about. Come for fun and community with your neighbors.

Black History Month Jeopardy

Thursday, February 10 | Starts at 4:00 p.m.

The goal of this event is to educate people on events and people about black history. Winners will receive a prize!

Titusville Black History Tween/Teen Trivia Bowl

Friday, February 11 | Starts at 4:00 p.m.

How much do you know about African American leaders and events? Want to learn more? This trivia bowl is designed to inspire, empower, elevate, and transform young patrons' perspectives and understanding of history. Call Titusville Library at 205-322-1140 to register. The winner will receive $100.00.

Bessie Coleman Airplane Craft

Monday, February 21 | Starts at 3:30 p.m.

Your imagination will take flight with the Titusville Library as you learn about Bessie Coleman. After the short history lesson, patrons will make airplanes out of clothespins! Materials are provided.

Talking to Children About Race

Wednesday, February 23 | Starts at 4:00 p.m.

Branch Manager Reba Williams will lead a workshop on anti-racism. This workshop is about discussing race with children, focusing on having hard conversations with teens. But many talking points apply to older children as well. It will be an interactive workshop with time for questions and discussions.

For more details, visit the Titusville Branch Library at #2 6th Avenue SW or call (205) 322-1140.

By Reba Williams, Branch Manager|Titusville Library

Check out photos from the Titusville Connection Artists Showcase