ACPL Celebrates Black History Month with Art, Community Programs, and Stories

The Allen County Public Library (ACPL) is celebrating Black History Month throughout February with a robust lineup of free programs for all ages, honoring Black history, culture, creativity, and community through art, hands-on learning, and shared experiences.

“Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect, learn, and celebrate the profound impact Black individuals and communities have had—and continue to have—on our shared history,” said Beth Boatright, ACPL Director of Partnerships and Programs. “These programs invite people of all ages to engage with that history in meaningful and welcoming ways, while also encouraging conversation, connection, and self-expression.” 

February 2026 Black History Month Highlights:

Free Breakfast – Black History Month 

Saturdays at the Pontiac Branch 

A family-friendly program celebrating the, highlighting community care, wellness, and history.

Art in Circles: Art Inspired by Alma Thomas  

Waynedale, Main Library, and Aboite locations 

Youth explore color, pattern, and creativity through watercolor projects inspired by pioneering abstract artist Alma Thomas. 

Gelli Plate Improvisational Collage  

Waynedale, Shawnee, and Main Library locations 

All-ages workshops inspired by the work of Romare Bearden, combining printmaking and collage techniques to create expressive, layered artwork. 

The Art of Fun 

Pontiac, Main Library, Little Turtle and Dupont locations 

Children create collage art inspired by award-winning author and illustrator Christian Robinson, blending storytelling and visual creativity. 

Hair Me Out: Textured Paintings 

Pontiac, Little Turtle, and Monroeville locations 

A multigenerational art experience celebrating hair, heritage, identity, and self-expression. 

Unboxed: Art, Identity & the Fashion of Self 

Main Library, Pontiac, and Hessen Cassel locations 

Teens explore personal and cultural identity through bold collage and sewing-inspired art projects. 

The Blue Print: Indigo-Dyed Textiles 

Aboite, Tecumseh, and Hessen Cassel locations 

Adult workshops exploring the history and technique of indigo dyeing while creating custom textile pieces. 

A Culinary Celebration of Black History 

Woodburn location 

A hands-on cooking program for youth focused on kitchen skills, food traditions, and making simple recipes at home.

All Black History Month programs are free and open to the public, with some requiring advance registration. Events take place at ACPL branches throughout Allen County. 

For a full schedule of dates, times, locations, and registration details, visit acpl.info/black-history-programs.   

The Library also encourages the community read books written by Black authors. A curated list is available at acpl.info/black-history-reads.