February is Black History Month, and the Aurora Public Library District (APLD) is joining the celebration with a broad lineup of fun and educational programs for all ages! As we honor the many contributions of black and African American individuals, we emphasize the ways in which literature has been a cornerstone for creative expression and storytelling around the world. In celebration of the many titles written, illustrated, and published by black creators, the Aurora Public Library District is offering a series of read-ins for children through the month in an effort to amplify these achievements and educate young minds for future generations. Join us every Tuesday this month at 10:30 a.m. when we read a joyful and exuberant picture book.
We started the series February 2 with a reading of All Because You Matter, written by Tami Charles and illustrated by Bryan Collier. As described in APLD’s catalog, “This powerful, rhythmic, lullaby reassures readers that they matter and their worth is never diminished, no matter the circumstance. From the joy and wonder of their first steps and first laughter, through the hardship of adolescent struggles and the pain and heartbreak of current events, they always have and always will matter.”
Following, Bedtime Bonnet by Nancy Redd and illustrated by Nneka Myers will be released on APLDs YouTube channel a week later. This book is about night time hair traditions in black and African American cultures. Redd is a graduate of Harvard University and ran as Miss Virginia in the 2003 Miss American pageant and continuously strives to push boundaries of inclusivity for black and African American women today. Myers is a Canadian illustrator and works with well-known clients such as Scholastica, Disney Digital Network, and Universal Studios Resort.
The series will consist of two more illustrated books, I Got The Rhythm by Connie Schofield-Morrison, illustrated by Frank Morrison, and a bilingual entitled I Promise by LeBron James and illustrated by Nita Mata.
These programs and more like it are pre-recorded and can be viewed on APLDs YouTube channel by visiting and subscribing at youtube.com/c/AuroraPublicLibraryIL. There will be more programs and events centered around diversity, inclusion, and equity throughout the months of February and March. Future events can be found at aurorapubliclibrary.org/events.
Andrew Muñoz is communications coordinator at the Aurora Public Library District.