Celebrate Black History Month with Capital Area District Libraries 

Information from CADL

Black History Month is a time to celebrate African Americans throughout history who have made significant contributions to our country and the rest of the world. 

During the month of February, Capital Area District Libraries (CADL) encourages residents to check out, download or stream stories of influential individuals, defining events and the Black experience.   

In addition to our print and digital titles, the public can celebrate Black history through these virtual and in-person events which are free and open to the public. 

Virtual events: 

Black History Storytime Series (Ages up to 6)  

Saturdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19 and 26 at 10:30 a.m.  

These storytimes will be held live on the library’s Facebook page and celebrate African American and African culture through stories and songs. You do not need a Facebook account to view these events.  

Quilts of the Underground Railroad with Miz Rosie (All ages) * 

Sunday, Feb. 20 at 3 p.m. 

 *Registration required to receive a link to the virtual event.

  Call 517-367-6312 or visit cadl.org and click the Events tab.

Join us online for a special event featuring storyteller Miz Rosie as she talks about how quilts were used for messaging in the Underground Railroad. She will share some quilts that contain special symbols and  tell stories about the role of the Underground Railroad in rescuing Black Americans from slavery.  

In-person events:
 

A Concert with The Page Men (All ages) 

Sunday, Feb. 6 at 3 p.m. 

CADL Downtown Lansing, 401 S. Capitol Ave., Lansing
 

Hear a mix of beautiful jazz and gospel-inspired music from local favorites Rodney Page and his sons. As they play, they will weave in some African American history along the way. 

Artist and Illustrator Julian Van Dyke (All ages) 

Saturday, Feb. 12 at 2 p.m. 

CADL South Lansing, 3500 S. Cedar St., Lansing 

Julian Van Dyke is a local author, muralist and actor. He will read from his new children’s book “Does This Make You a Bully?” about the hurtful and disrespectful feelings bullying causes. He also will demonstrate the art of book illustrating. 

For additional Black History Month resources,  go to cadl.org or visit the Stockbridge location at 200 Wood St. or any of the 13 CADL branches.  

Lansing-area musicians The Page Men will perform a concert at 3 p.m. Feb. 6 at CADL in downtown Lansing to celebrate Black History Month. Photo provided by CADL