Press enter or spacebar to select a desired language.

Celebrate Black History Month 2026 with CCPL

Celebrate Black History Month
Article Date
January 28, 2026

Join the Charleston County Public Library in celebration of Black History Month throughout February. Enjoy special programs, book displays and more as we mark the 100th anniversary of the national observance! Black History Month is an annual celebration that recognizes the achievements of African Americans and their role in history.   

Check out some of the programs we have scheduled below. Want to know more? Call your local branch for more information about programs and visit the CCPL calendar of events! 

Art Exhibit Featuring Jonathan Green and John Jones | Wando Mt. Pleasant Library  

Throughout the Month of February 

 

Step into a vibrant celebration of Lowcountry life and legacy featuring the works of John Jones and Jonathan Green. Jones explores everyday moments and landscapes with remarkable realism and meticulously drawing each piece before building luminous layers of oils, acrylics, and watercolors that capture light, reflection, and rich historical nuance. 

Complementing his vision, internationally acclaimed artist Jonathan Green brings more than forty years of award-winning mastery, widely collected and exhibited across the world, known for brilliantly honoring the beauty, spirit, and traditions of Southern and African American culture. 

 

Join us for a powerful and inspiring author talk with Lorna Rainey as she discusses her book "First in the House." 
 
The book tells the remarkable story of her great grandfather, Joseph Hayne Rainey. Born into slavery in Georgetown, South Carolina he later became the first Black person to serve in the US House of Representatives. 

 

Movie Matinee Series  | St. Paul’s Hollywood Library  

In honor of Black History Month, the St. Paul’s Hollywood Library is hosting a series matinee film screenings on various dates. The screenings are geared towards adults, but all are welcome.  

Hidden Figures | Monday, February 2 | 3 to 6 PM 

The Color Purple | Monday, February 9 | 3 to 6 PM 

The Eyes Were Watching God | Monday, February 23 | 3 to 6 PM 

 

Tuesday, February 3 from 3 to 4 PM 

 

Celebrate Black History Month through color, creativity, and imagination! Kids will learn about amazing Black artists then create their own masterpiece inspired by their styles. From bold patterns to storytelling quilts to expressive lines, this hands-on program invites young artists to explore, experiment, and shine. For kids and families. 

 

Wednesday, February 4 from 3 to 4 PM 

 

Celebrate Black History Month by learning about the contributions Alfred L. Calle, Frederick McKinley Jones, and Norbert Rillieux made to society, and how that connects to making DIY ice cream! For kids and families. 

 

Wednesday, February 4 from 3:30pm - 4:15pm 

 

Learn about celebrated Black artist Bisa Butler, who creates beautiful hand quilted portraits using fabric. Create your own fabric collage self-portrait and be inspired by Bisa Butler’s artistry! Ages 6-11. 

 

Tuesday, February 10 from 6:00 -7:30pm 

 

Explore the roles of James Armistead Lafayette, Crispus Attucks, Peter Salem, and others with Julian Barrett Gooding, Charleston based documentary filmmaker, storyteller and media educator and food-ways historian.   

In this lecture, we will analyze the dual fight for freedom and discuss Lord Dunmore's Proclamation and its impact on enslaved people in the South. 

 

Thursday, February 12 from 12:00 to 1:30 PM 

 

Enjoy a guided listening experience celebrating the legacy of Black music. Explore jazz, blues, gospel, and hip-hop through curated listening stations and brief history cards, with time for optional discussion or trivia at the end. For adults.  

 

 

Thursday, February 19 from 6:30 to 7:30 PM 

 

Discover the remarkable stories of Black South Carolinians—both enslaved and free—who fought for liberty in a nation that denied them their own. Learn about two men whose courage and conviction helped shape the fight for independence and freedom.  This event is being held in the second-floor classroom.   

 

Thursday, February 26 from 3:30 PM – 4:15 PM 

In honor of Black History Month, celebrate the beloved 1962 book A Snowy Day - the first book with a black protagonist to win the Caldecott Medal! Immerse yourself in Peter’s day of winter fun by creating snow-themed crafts. For kids and families. 

 

Wednesday, February 25 from 12 to 1 PM 

 

Learn about two groundbreaking Black artists. Includes a short presentation, group discussion, and time at the end to create your own artwork inspired by the color, energy and expression of their works. For adults.  

 

Tuesday, February 24  from 3 to 4 PM 

 

Come discover the incredible inventions created by Black innovators throughout history! Kids will rotate through fun, hands-on STEM stations inspired by real inventors and problem-solvers. Build, experiment, test, and create while learning how these contributions shaped the world. A perfect blend of history, science, and creativity! For kids and families.  

 

Wednesday, February 25 from 3:30 to 4:30 PM 

 

Come celebrate the artwork of Oge Mora, an award-winning artist and children’s book author/illustrator with us. We will learn about Mora’s life and artwork and make a collage-style project.   For kids and families.