Westfield Memorial Library Celebrates Black History Month with Educational and Cultural Programming

Westfield Memorial Library invites the community to join us in honoring Black History Month this February with a series of engaging programs that celebrate Black history, culture, and contributions to our nation and the world.

Throughout the month, the Library will host events designed to educate, inspire, and foster meaningful conversation across generations.

Highlights include:

Bradford Hayes Quartet
We celebrate the 100th year of Black History Month with the Bradford Hayes Quartet! Bradford Hayes, a native of Dinwiddie County, Virginia has been a force on the jazz scene for many years now. This evening of music is generously funded by the Friends of the Westfield Memorial Library. Register Can’t attend in-person? Watch the livestream.
Tuesday, February 17th at 7:00pm

Ricky Riccardi Presents Stomp Off, Let’s Go: The Early Life of Louis Armstrong
In Stomp Off, Let's Go, author and Armstrong expert Ricky Riccardi tells the enthralling story of the iconic trumpeter's meteoric rise to fame. Register
Saturday, February 21st at 2:00pm

American History Through the Lens of Black Baseball
We celebrate 100 years of Black History Month! Learn the story of racism and racial discrimination in America told through the lens of Black baseball. The resilience and pride of African Americans in the face of the horrors of racial injustice and systemic discrimination perpetrated by segregation cannot be understated. Presented in partnership with The Adult School. Register by visiting theadultschool.org or calling 973-443-9222.
Thursday, February 26th at 10:30am

“Black History Month honors the resilience, creativity, and leadership that have shaped our nation in profound ways,” says Allen McGinley, Library Director. “Stories of both the triumphs and struggles are essential to deepening our understanding of one another and of our shared American experience.”

All programs are free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged for select events. A complete schedule, including dates and times, is available at wmlnj.org or by calling the Library at 908-789-4090.

Westfield Memorial Library is committed to offering inclusive programming that reflects and honors the richness of our shared history.

About Westfield Memorial LibraryWestfield Memorial Library is a public library dedicated to providing free and equitable access to information, resources, and cultural experiences for residents of Westfield and the surrounding community. Through innovative programming and responsive services, the Library advances literacy, lifelong learning, and civic engagement.