Learn about African-Americans in the early modern Olympiads Oct. 16

The Batavia Public Library's New Lyceum Lecture Series continues with the program, "Carrying the Torch" at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 16, at the library, 10 S. Batavia Ave.

While most Americans are familiar with the triumphs of Jesse Owens at the 1936 Summer Olympics, few are aware that dozens of African-Americans competed in the Olympics from 1896 to 1948.

This presentation seeks to shed light on these neglected pioneers and examine their contribution to the Civil Rights Movement.

Presenter Stanley Arnold is an associate professor of history at Northern Illinois University and the author of "Building the Beloved Community: Philadelphia's Interracial Civil Rights Organizations, 1930-1970."

He currently is working on a book that focuses on the intersection of race and sports.

The lecture is free; however, registration is required. Register online at www.BataviaPublicLibrary.org or call the library Reference Desk, (630) 879-1393, ext. 200.

The New Lyceum Lecture Series 2017-18 season is sponsored by the Batavia Public Library Foundation.