Celebrating Black History Month: 5 Library Resources for Finding Great Children's Books
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Black History Month is a time to honor African Americans' achievements, resilience, and contributions throughout history. Black history is American history and deserves to be explored and celebrated all year. One of the best ways to do this is through books highlighting the rich and diverse experiences of African Americans, past and present.
If you’re looking for great children’s books to share this month (and beyond!), I’ve gathered five library resources that offer curated lists of books for young readers. Most of these selections are middle-grade, but you’ll also find picture books for younger children and young adult books for older readers.
Five Library Websites to Help You Choose Books
📚 New York Public Library – The NYPL has an excellent collection of recommended Black History Month books highlighting historical and contemporary stories. Their curated lists cover a variety of reading levels and genres.
📚 Chicago Public Library – The CPL provides reading recommendations for all ages, from picture books to YA novels, celebrating African American voices, culture, and history. They also have book discussion guides and activities to deepen the reading experience.
📚 City of Hayward Public Library – This library’s Black History Month list includes a fantastic selection of middle-grade fiction, spotlighting stories that uplift and inspire.
📚 Madison Public Library – With recommendations for kids and teens, Madison Public Library’s collection features books celebrating African American excellence and history.
📚 Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh – Carnegie Library’s staff picks highlight middle-grade books that explore Black history, culture, and identity, offering a mix of fiction and nonfiction selections.
Support Your Local Library!
Libraries are a vital part of our communities. They provide free access to books, resources, and programs that educate, inspire, and connect us. If you haven’t visited your local library lately - whether in person or online - this is a great time to explore what they offer. From book recommendations to special Black History Month events, your library is a hub of learning and celebration.
Reading diverse stories helps us all grow in understanding, empathy, and appreciation. So, whether you’re revisiting classics or discovering new favorites, I hope these resources help you find books that inspire meaningful conversations with the young readers in your life.
Have you found a great children’s book to celebrate Black History Month? Send me your favorites - I’d love to hear your recommendations!
