Black History Month 2021 begins on 1 October. This year the theme is 'Proud to be' - a national celebration of the often-overlooked contributions of Black Britons to the nation's history. This year also looks to the present and future with a call for 'continued action to tackle racism, reclaim Black history, and ensure Black history is represented and celebrated all year round.'

Libraries can add to their events and displays by purchasing the Black History Resource Pack 2021 which contains creative artwork posters and teaching materials across a wide range of subjects. 

Here are just some of the activities that libraries are hosting but do check out your own service to find out more about what's happening in your area.

Cambridgeshire Libraries
Join Benjamin Zephaniah, Ayshah Johnston and Kieran Yates for a Living Knowledge Network streamed event on Saturday 23 October. The event looks at the stories and experiences of children who came to the UK from the Caribbean as part of the post-war immigration boom, and those who were left behind, joining their parents in their new life later on.

Lambeth Libraries
Lambeth Libraries are holding a fascinating series of educational and inspiring events, beginning on 2 October with the launch of Alex Wheatle's novel Cane Warriors in paperback at Brixton Library. See the full programme. 

Oldham Libraries
Oldham have a series of performances and exhibitions throughout the town this October including a screening of Hidden Figures on 14 October. This film follows the story of three black female mathematicians who played a vital part in NASA’s space programme. On 16 October, Oldham Library hosts Aleiah's Adventure - a retelling of Greater Manchester's history using visual storytelling and BSL. 

Redbridge Libraries
Redbridge Libraries are putting on a range of events including Black History for Beginners – To Britain From Africa Via The Caribbean on 4 October at 6.30pm. In this free online event, Paul Crooks journeys through some of the most interesting periods in Black history from Ancient Africa to Black Britain via the Caribbean. Access the full programme.

Staffordshire Libraries
Staffordshire Libraries are producing a Black History Month themed programme of animated films and audio dramas every Friday at 7pm throughout October. Visit their Facebook or Twitter accounts at 7pm every Friday in October to find the links to the films.

St. Helens Libraries
St. Helens Library Service is once again celebrating Black History Month with a varied programme of events. In partnership with Citadel Arts during October half term, they have Aleiah's Adventure visiting 3 of our libraries. Join Aleiah as she ventures through the city meeting fascinating friends & relatable role models. This is a playful and physical experience that uses British Sign Language and visual storytelling to explore the wonderful world & celebrate diversity in the North West. For more details and how to book tickets visit Citadel Arts website.

Sutton Libraries
Sutton Libraries are hosting a number of events for children throughout October. Join them online on Wednesday 20 October as they watch interview clips from the Growing Up oral history project and discuss these experiences with members from the Sutton African and Caribbean Cultural Organisation (SACCO). 

Wandsworth Libraries
Join Kathleen Chater on 5 October for Uncle Tom's Cabin on Stage - an exploration of the many theatrical performances of this best-selling 19th century novel.