Black History is American History
Explore the amazing achievements and culture of Black Americans.
Join us during Black History Month to celebrate the vital role labor had in shaping the African American experience. This year's theme, "African Americans and Labor," recognizes the historical and ongoing contributions of Black workers across various sectors, from enslaved agricultural labor to modern-day professionals and activists.
Experience Black History Month through our collections, events, and reading lists.
Black History
Art of the African Diaspora Exhibit
The Bay Area's longest-running African Diaspora art exhibition showcasing Black artists since 1989.
Save the Date: LocalLit
LocalLit is a free annual event celebrating San José’s writing community. This event takes places Jan. 24, 2026!
Christmas Fiction Selections for 2025!
Get ready for the Holiday Season with some book selections from our Fiction shelves!
Recommended Reads
Be inspired by the stories of remarkable people.
Biographies
Picture Books
Picture Books About African Americans
My favorite picture books for Black History Month.
Graphic Novels
Black History Month: A Look at Graphic Novels
A list of Graphic Novels for Black History Month.
Special Collections
Relive history at the King Library.
Special Collections
Edmonia Lewis
The California Room features three marble sculptures created by Edmonia Lewis: Asleep, Awake and a bust of Abraham Lincoln.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Collection
We have a special collection of materials related to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Civil Rights movement.
Staff Blogs
Read unique stories and perspectives written by SJPL staff.
Blogs
Celebrate Black History Month: "Miss New Orleans"
Part of a series of Black History Month Blogs.
YA Friday: Celebrate Black Voices
YA Nonfiction and Fiction Books Celebrating Black Voices.
Celebrating Black Excellence in the Name of Resistance
First post for 2023's Black History Month focused on Resistance.
Celebrate Black History Month: "Miss New Orleans"
Part of a series of Black History Month Blogs.
YA Friday: Celebrate Black Voices
YA Nonfiction and Fiction Books Celebrating Black Voices.
Celebrating Black Excellence in the Name of Resistance
First post for 2023's Black History Month focused on Resistance.
