Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future. In Chicago, the public library serves as a hub for learning and community engagement, offering programs that highlight the rich contributions of African Americans.
This year, the Chicago Public Library’s events focus on the theme “African Americans and Labor,” emphasizing the role Black workers, entrepreneurs, and activists have played in shaping history. Whether you’re interested in literature, film, or hands-on creativity, the library provides many ways to get involved.
Here are five ways to celebrate Black History Month with the Chicago Public Library in 2025.
1. Attend a book discussion on Ida B. Wells
Ida B. Wells was a journalist, activist, and leader in the fight for civil rights. The Chicago Public Library is honoring her legacy with a Chicago History Book Club discussion on her biography, Ida: A Sword Among Lions.
- Date & Time: Tuesday, February 11, 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Hosted by the Logan Square Branch, taking place at Easy Does It
- What to Expect: A conversation about Wells’ groundbreaking work in journalism and social justice, with insights into her lasting impact.
For those who want to learn more about Wells, this discussion provides a deep dive into the challenges she faced and the change she fought for.
2. Explore the economic legacy of Black Americans
The economic contributions of African Americans are often overlooked. The Chicago Public Library is offering an online event focused on homeownership, property taxes, and financial literacy.
- Event: What Every Homeowner Should Know: Taxes
- Date & Time: Wednesday, February 19, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Location: Online
- What to Expect: Experts will guide homeowners through key financial topics, helping to build economic empowerment in Black communities.
This program aligns with this year’s Black History Month theme by discussing the economic barriers and opportunities that have shaped Black homeownership.
3. Join a book discussion on Black representation in media
Representation in media has long been a crucial issue in the Black community. The Chicago Public Library is hosting a discussion on Colored Television, a book that explores the evolution of Black images on screen.
- Date & Time: Saturday, February 22, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Location: Pullman Branch
- What to Expect: A discussion about how Black stories are told on television and how those narratives shape public perception.
For those interested in media studies and cultural representation, this discussion offers a thought-provoking look at how Black identity is portrayed on screen.
4. Learn about the history of Black quilting traditions
African American quilting has long been a form of storytelling and cultural preservation. The Chicago Public Library is hosting a rail fence quilt workshop to introduce beginners to this historic craft.
- Event: Threads of Legacy: A Rail Fence Quilt Workshop for Beginners
- Date & Time: Thursday, February 20, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Location: Woodson Regional Library
- What to Expect: Participants will learn the basics of creating a rail fence quilt block, a traditional pattern with historical significance.
This hands-on workshop highlights the importance of Black artistic traditions and how they have been used for communication, resistance, and cultural expression.
5. Watch a film about Ida B. Wells
For those who prefer a visual experience, the Chicago Public Library is screening Ida B. Wells, a documentary that explores her activism and contributions to journalism.
- Event: Chicago Stories Film Screening: ‘Ida B. Wells’
- Date & Time: Monday, February 24, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Location: Archer Heights Branch
- What to Expect: A compelling look at Wells’ fight for justice, from her anti-lynching campaign to her role in the suffrage movement.
This film offers an accessible way to learn about an important historical figure and her impact on Chicago and beyond.
Honoring Black history beyond February
Black History Month is more than just a series of events—it’s a reminder to continuously explore, learn, and support Black culture. The Chicago Public Library provides year-round resources, including an extensive African American history collection and reading lists that highlight Black voices.
For a full list of Black History Month events and more information, visit the Chicago Public Library’s official page.
This February, take the time to engage with history, celebrate achievements, and join the conversation.
