Gail Borden Public Library celebrates Black History Month with exhibits, music and tributes
Celebrate creativity, fortitude and community service of Black figures this Black History Month with these exciting events, exhibits and materials at the Gail Borden Public Library. Visit www.gailborden.info/blackhistory as more lists and media continue to get added throughout the month, or to register for the programs below.
Significant Black Women of the Reconstruction Era and Beyond
Learn the fascinating history of Black women from the Reconstruction era through the Civil Rights era, and into present day at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4, at the main library. Pastor, scholar, and activist Dr. Felicia LaBoy will share how these women strove to change their circumstances, better their communities and shape the future of the country. Registration is required.
Rhythm of Connection: Exploring Music’s Impact on Our Lives
Explore the transformative effects of music on people’s lives in this interactive workshop at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, at the main library. Learn how rhythm is deeply rooted in human emotions and connections, and get hands-on to experience your own creativity with percussion instruments and body movement. Registration is required.
A Tribute to Dr. Risé Jones
Honor Dr. Risé Jones’ legacy and positive impact on this community with music, tributes, and more at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 16, at the main library. Jones was a beloved community leader, executive director of Hamilton Wings — a program which provided after-school programs for underserved children in the community — and served on the boards of several local organizations, including the YWCA, Elgin Community College, and the Elgin Chamber of Commerce. Registration is required.
‘Awesome Black Creativity’ exhibit
“Awesome Black Creativity,” a celebration of Black figures in Lego bricks, is on display at the Gail Borden Public Main Library through Feb. 27. This interactive exhibition of Lego brick-built figures, an A—Z series spanning history and various disciplines, inspires guests to think about building in new, innovative ways and provides the opportunity to make their own creations. The creators of the inspirational Lego figures displayed in the exhibition are Dave Kaleta and Richard Dryden, who represented themselves on “Lego Masters” on FOX in 2021 as a team of dads who are passionate about environmentalism, social justice, and civic and cultural pride.
For more information about the exhibit, visit www.gbpl.info/ABCproject. This exhibit was created by DuPage Children’s Museum in partnership with Richard Dryden and Dave Kaleta.
Power in Pages — Black History, Black Voices
Dive into powerful stories by Black authors or explore narratives of resilience with our staff-curated book list for adults: www.gbpl.info/blackhistorymonthlist. Looking for more suggestions? The friendly team of librarians is ready to help. Stop by the library or visit the library’s website to submit an inquiry.
Register for these programs online at www.gailborden.info/events, by phone at (847) 429-4597, or in person at any library location. All events mentioned held at the Gail Borden Main Library, 270 N. Grove Ave. in Elgin, unless otherwise noted.
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