Font size options
Increase or decrease the font size for this website by clicking on the 'A's.
Contrast options
Choose a color combination to give the most comfortable
contrast.
January 31, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nicholas A. Brown
(301) 699-3500 x6241
Nicholas.Brown@pgcmls.info
Largo, Maryland – Black heritage and cultural programs are offered throughout the year at the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS). This Black History Month, the Library showcases a range of performances, family and teen programs, film screenings, and historical and literary programs that connect important figures, amazing innovators, and folk culture with the present. Over 57 events will be presented at neighborhood branch libraries, in the community, and online. All programs are free and open to the public, though registration is required or recommended for select events. Prince Georgians are encouraged to visit the Library’s Black Heritage Hub at pgcmls.info/black-heritage to explore Black history and culture through research databases, recommended books, streaming media, and educational content curated by the Library’s Black History and Culture Team.
Performing Arts Programs
Performing arts programs feature Dramatic Play, Janice The Griot, InterAct Story Theatre, The Uncle Devin Show, a panel on “Black Musicians & Classical Music” (co-presented with the Prince George’s County Office of Human Rights), and Cortenia Smith’s one-woman show, “The Life and Legacy of Harriet Tubman” (co-presented with Joe’s Movement Emporium).
Featured Performing Arts Events
Historical & Literary Programs
Historical and literary programs explore the books of great writers like Toni Morrison, celebrate the work of Black LGBTQ+ authors, and encourage writers to develop their craft. Bowie-based author Courtney Duke Foster discusses her book “Passing Notes: A Novel,” which examines the experience of two young Black women in 1950s New York (Thursday, February 23, 7-8 pm, virtual, co-presented with Prince George’s County Office of Human Rights).
PGCMLS’ own Edith Johnson-Gilmore of the New Carrollton Branch Library discusses her own past involvement with the Black Panther Party in New York City (Tuesday, February 21, 6-7 pm - New Carrollton Branch Library). The Hurston/Wright Foundation and the Library present a panel on “Pathway to Becoming a Published Author” moderated by Dr. Khadijah Ali-Coleman. The Hurston/Wright Foundation provides services, support, and opportunities that mentor, recognize, and provide a community for professional and aspiring Black writers.
Featured Historical & Literary Programs
Film Screenings
Two special film screenings will take place during Black History Month. The Hyattsville Branch Library’s Independent Film Series screens “The Inheritance” (2021, Not Rated) on Monday, February 13 at 7 pm. The film’s writer and director Ephraim Asili will discuss their work and the way the film explores different facets of the African diaspora. The Mount Rainier Branch Library and Joe’s Movement Emporium present a screening of “The Last Black Man in San Francisco” (2019, Rated R) on Friday, February 17 at 7 pm (at Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Road, Mount Rainier, Maryland 20712).
Family & Teen Programs
The Library offers a range of storytime, STEM, craft, and game night programs for families. Children can discover the stories of Black inventors, astronauts like Dr. Mae Jemison, and explore their interests as creators. Culture Queen returns to PGCMLS for two presentations of “I Like the Me I See!” Teens can earn service hours while learning about Black history through the Teen Action Group at the Greenbelt Branch Library on Wednesday, February 1, 4:30-5:30 pm.
Visit pgcmls.info/events for complete event details. Accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request. Please contact (240) 455-5451 or askalibrarian@pgcmls.info at least 72 hours in advance.
About the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System
The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) helps customers discover and define opportunities that shape their lives. The Library serves the 967,000+ residents of Prince George’s County, Maryland through 19 branch libraries, a 24/7 online library, and pop-up services throughout the community. PGCMLS is a responsive and trusted community-driven organization. Programs, services, and outreach activities serve book lovers, immigrants and refugees, job seekers, children, young professionals, seniors, and families alike. PGCMLS is the recipient of the 2021 Urban Libraries Council Top Innovator Award for Workforce and Economic Development. Learn more at pgcmls.info/about-us.