Savannah, GA, January 31, 2024 – Throughout February, Live Oak Public Libraries will observe Black History Month with free storytelling, activities and programs throughout its three-county system. This year’s theme is African Americans and the Arts, celebrating the immense cultural influence of Black Americans on music, literature, dance and the visual arts.

The community is invited to explore authors, artists and special events honoring the Black experience. Library programs will expand your knowledge of local Black history, empower you to use our genealogy resources to learn more about your family history, and engage you with dynamic storytelling.

Throughout February, multiple libraries will host local master Storyteller Lillian Grant-Baptiste, who will use the magic of storytelling to weave stories of adventure and resilience from the African Diaspora. Local artist and researcher, Jimmie Lee Westley Jr., will highlight the legacy of Black Americans in the world of thoroughbred horse racing on Feb. 29.

All library programming is free and open to the public. Please check the library's program schedule or contact your local library for more information.

Live Oak Public Libraries will also partner with local cultural organizations for special events in February including:

• Hometown Treasures Community Expo: Live Oak Public Libraries will be an exhibitor at the expo, hosted by the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture as a part of the Savannah Black Heritage Festival. Feb. 19, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., at Savannah State University.

• Tracing Your Roots: Join Savannah African Art Museum, in partnership with Live Oak Public Libraries for an informational session on African American Genealogy. Learn about family history resources available through Live Oak's Genealogy Department. Call Savannah African Art Museum at 912-721-7745 to register. Feb. 24, 11 a.m., Bull Street Library Auditorium.

• Hidden Legacy: The Story and Art of African American Jockeys: A fascinating look into an era when African Americans dominated America's first national sport, thoroughbred horse racing, presented by local artist and researcher Jimmie Lee Westley Jr. February 29th, 4 p.m., Oglethorpe Mall Library.

Click here to view the complete calendar of programs.

To learn more about Live Oak Public Libraries’ Black History Month Celebration, visit your local library or go online to liveoakpl.org/blackhistory.