2023 (Feb 3 - Feb 28)

Experience the music of influential Black musicians from Chicago who changed the world. Musical artists from soul, jazz, blues, gospel, opera, rap, rock and funk genres will be put in the spotlight. Learn about how these talented musicians honed their craft and listen to a sample of their music.
 
 

 

Black Excellence in Chicago Music Exhibit

Main Library Second Floor
February

Experience the music of influential Black musicians from Chicago who changed the world. Musical artists from soul, jazz, blues, gospel, opera, rap, rock and funk genres will be put in the spotlight. Learn about how these talented musicians honed their craft and listen to a sample of their music.

 

Black History Month Events

Gospel Choir Celebration

Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Saturday, 2/11 | 1 pm

Enjoy the music of talented local gospel choirs.


 

100 Years of Black History

With Storyteller Linda Gorham

Virtual via Zoom
Thursday, 2/2 | 6:30 – 8 pm

All ages. This program explores the contributions of more than 30 African American men and women over the past 100 years.


 

Celebrate Black Joy Through Poetry

With Elgin Poet Laureate Emeritus Chasity Gunn 

Main Library Meadows Community Rooms 
Sunday, 2/5 | 1:30 pm

Adults. Elgin’s first Poet Laureate Chasity Gunn performs a selection of her poems and presents her poetry proteges.

Please register!


Desserts & Dogs

With Chef Dee Kid Liefde

Main Library Sally Lee Rooms
Wednesday, 2/8 | 7 pm

Learn how to make bakery-style cheesecake based on soul food traditions and classic Chicago hot dogs with Elgin area baker Dee Kid Liefde. Taste the delicious creations afterwards!

Please register!

We Are Human: CHAR In Concert 
Main LibraryMeadows Community Rooms 
Thursday, 2/16 | 7 pm

Singer-songwriter CHAR stirs your emotions and delights your senses in an evening of songs celebrating Black History Month.

Please register!


The Life-Changing Power of Community

with Author Clifton Taulbert 

Virtual via Zoom
Thursday, February 23 | 7 pm

Adults. Internationally known author Clifton Taulbert (Once Upon A Time When We Were Colored, The 8 Habits Of The Heart) will illustrate the power of community to transform lives.

Please register!

 

Black American Authors Discussion Group

Main Library Grove Room
Monday, 2/27 | 6:30 pm   

February author is Toni Morrison. This group selects a different Black American author each month and discusses topics including love, freedom, civil rights, churches, schools, challenging times, plays and music.

Please register!