The Arlington Public Library is gearing up to celebrate Black History Month with an array of educational and creative events designed to honor Black culture and achievements. In an announcement made by the library, a diverse line-up of activities ranging from DIY crafts to art sessions and cultural tea tastings will be available to the community throughout February, providing opportunities for all ages to engage with Black heritage and history, per the City of Arlington.
For families looking to enjoy crafting together, the "Family Craft Night: Black History Month" event will be held on February 2 at the Southeast Branch, where attendees can create DIY crafts inspired by abstract artist Reggie Laurent. Also highlighted by the library, teens have a chance to contribute creatively to the community during "Teens Give Back: Black History Month" on February 9, where they can make bookmarks featuring Black superheroes. Both events require no registration, making it easy for children and teenagers to participate.
Adults are invited to explore the artistic legacy of Alma Thomas in "Art After Dark" on February 13, as well as catch a special artist reception showcasing local Black artists on February 28. Additionally, "Tea Time! Heritage of the African Soil" will be an event not to miss on February 25, offering a tasting experience of Kenyan Purple Tea and Malawi Black Tea. These programs present an engaging way for adults to connect with Black history and culture.
Younger audiences have exciting opportunities to learn and play with "Family Storytime: Black History Month" and "Lego Free Play: Black History Month," promising stories, songs, and a chance to build creations inspired by Black inventors. Catered especially for children ages 1 to 4, "Little Explorers: Black History Month" on February 20 allows toddlers to engage in a morning filled with play-based learning. Meanwhile, tweens can brush up on watercolor skills inspired by Alma Thomas's art during the "A Splash of Color" workshop at the Southwest Branch.
