2025 Black History Month

Decorative border in orange, red, yellow and green frame white text in a black background. Text reads, “Black History Month.”

Understanding Black history is integral to understanding the history, issues and the future of our country. One of the founding documents of this country, the United States Declaration of Independence, held that "all men are created equal." However, the long history and the impacts of enslavement, segregation and redlining are still felt today. Each February, San Diego Public Library honors Black History Month, by celebrating culture and community, and recognizing the achievements—as well as the continuing struggles—of Black Americans.

Quick links:

Annual Author Event
Featured Programming
Storytimes & Crafts
Video
Resources
Booklists

Featured Author

Lakewood with Megan Giddings: Black History Month Author Talk
Monday, Feb. 24 | 6 – 8 p.m. | Central Library | Registration Encouraged

Together with the University of San Diego Copley Library, SDPL presents Lakewood, with Megan Giddings, as part of our annual Black History Month author series.

Lakewood (2020), the critically-acclaimed debut novel of Giddings, looks at the moral dilemmas faced by working-class families and the horror that has been forced on black bodies in the name of science.

Featured Programming

Clipart of white film camera on black background

Black History Month Film Screenings
February | Monday—Thursday | Valencia Park/Malcolm X Library | Ages 12-18
Teens are invited to screen films centered on Black voices and experiences

Mondays & Tuesdays | 6 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.
Wednesdays & Thursdays | 4 p.m. - 5:45 p.m.

Friends of Oak Park Library Black History Month Cultural Event
Saturday, Feb. 22 | 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. | Oak Park Library

Take Me to the Water: Histories of the Black Pacific Exhibit
March 23—May 18 | Popular Library, Central Library
An exhibit that highlights Black folks who took to the Pacific Ocean in ways that transformed their lives, communities, and, at times, nations, between the 1500s and mid-1900s. The exhibit celebrates the deep roots connecting their many diverse stories and experiences. Curated by Dr. Caroline Collins.