Contact: Raquel Taylor

Public Information Specialist

(757) 664-7328, Ext. 341

raquel.taylor@norfolk.gov

 

Norfolk Public Library Brings African-American History to Life!

February 2011

 

Norfolk, VA (January 28, 2011) – Mark your calendars; the Norfolk Public Library will host special events throughout February to commemorate African-American History Month.

 

The 2011 theme is African Americans and the Civil War. The Library takes history from the pages of books and brings it to life through a variety of programs, ranging from a play about the little-known life of ex-slave and dressmaker Elizabeth “Lizzy” Keckley; to a musical performance by current history maker, Mr. Calvin Earl. These and so many other heroes broke color barriers, permanently shaping America’s history.    

 

Discover the abundance of literary resources available at your library on African-American history. While you’re there, NPL invites you to learn about the extraordinary accomplishments of African-Americans in a fun, engaging and intriguing way - by attending a program below!

 

For a complete list of programs, pick up a copy of the African-American History Month Program Guide and Bibliography at any NPL location, or go online to www.npl.lib.va.us.

 

 

 

2011 African American History Month Program Lineup

 

Tracing Your African-American Ancestors

Saturday, February 5 @ 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Norfolk Main Library Conference Room ~ 235 E. Plume Street ~ 664-7485

Sargeant Memorial Collection staff will help new genealogists begin their research of African-American resources. This program includes tips on how to do research and covers various print and digital resources to help you find your family’s history.  It concludes with a tour of the SMC and time for questions and answers.  For more information and to register, please call (757) 664-7485

 

Black Patriot: A Conversation with John Rollison

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Library ~ 111 W. Ocean View Avenue ~ 441-1750

Sunday, February 6 @ 2:00 PM

Performer James Cameron will present a living history reenactment of the life of John Rollison, a Revolutionary War-era African-American. Rollison, a free black man who managed to acquire wealth and notability in Williamsburg, Virginia, soon learned that “free’ did not always mean “equal”. (All Ages)

 

Wynn Jackson Performers & Company

This group of multi-talented singers and actors presents a finger-popping performance that celebrates the creative genius of African-American contributions, from spirituals to musical theatre.  (All Ages)

 

Wednesday, February 2 @ 6:00 PM

Little Creek Branch Library ~ 7853 Tarpon Place ~ 441-1751  

 

Thursday, February 3 @ 5:30 PM

Lafayette Branch Library ~ 1610 Cromwell Drive ~ 441-2842  

 

Saturday, February 5 @ 4:00 PM

Barron F. Black Branch Library ~ 6700 Tanners Creek Drive ~ 441-5806   

 

Thursday, Feb. 10 @ 5:30 PM

Horace C. Downing Branch Library ~ 555 E. Liberty Street ~ 441-1968 

 

They Called Me Lizzy…From Slavery to the White House

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Library ~ 111 W. Ocean View Avenue ~ 441-1750

Saturday, February 19 @ 2:00 PM

The East Haddam Stage Company presents a moving performance that revolves around the life of Elizabeth “Lizzy” Keckley, an African-American slave who purchased her freedom and eventually made it to Washington D.C., where her talent for dressmaking and entrepreneurial spirit landed her a position in the White House as Mary Todd Lincoln’s seamstress and personal confidante. This dramatic recounting of Lizzy’s experiences is much more than a slave narrative; it’s a human story - at times tragic, at times triumphant - but always fascinating. (Family)

 

Orisirisi

Orisirisi (pronounced o-re-she-re-she) has captivated the imaginations of many worldwide with their dance, drumming, and storytelling. Come for a profound cultural experience! (All Ages) 

 

Saturday, February 12 @ 2:00 PM

Janaf Branch Library ~ 124 Janaf Shopping Center ~ 441-5660

 

Sunday, February 13 @ 2:00 PM

Pretlow Anchor Branch Library ~ 111 W. Ocean View Avenue ~ 441-1750      

 

Wednesday, February 16 @ 5:30 PM

Larchmont Branch Library ~ 6525 Hampton Boulevard ~ 441-5335 

 

Thursday, February 17 @ 4:30 PM

Blyden Branch Library ~ 879 E. Princess Anne Road ~ 441-2852

 

Elliot Family String Quartet

Based in Newport News, Virginia, The Elliott Family String Quartet has been performing as a family ensemble since early 2004. The quartet performs classical favorites and fiddle tunes, as well as pop music with equal skill and verve. Don’t miss this riveting display of musicianship! (Family) 

 

Saturday, February 12 @ 2:00 PM

Van Wyck Branch Library ~ 1368 DeBree Avenue ~ 441-2844       

 

Saturday, February 19 @ 2:00 PM

Jordan-Newby Branch Library ~ 961 Park Avenue ~ 441-2843  

 

Wednesday, February 23 @ 5:00 PM

Park Place Branch Library ~ 620 W. 29th Street ~ 664-7330 

 

Calvin Earl presents: Gifts From My Ancestors

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Library ~ 111 W. Ocean View Avenue ~ 441-1750

Sunday, February 27 @ 2:00 PM

Calvin Earl rose to national prominence in 2007 when he succeeded in moving the United States Congress to a unanimous vote that would forever recognize the African-American Spiritual as a National Treasure, and honor the slaves for their contributions to our nation “with our deepest gratitude and respect”. In an amazing musical performance, Calvin will help us discover the historical significance of the spirituals sung in the cotton fields and in church on Sunday mornings, and the secret messages they contained. (All Ages)

 

 

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About Norfolk Public Library:

The Norfolk Public Library offers access to information, books, programs, and online resources to meet the needs of our diverse community for life-long learning. The library system consists of one main library, ten branch libraries, one anchor branch library, and a Bookmobile. All programs are FREE of charge. Visit www.npl.lib.va.us or call us at (757) 664-READ for more information. NPL- Creating a City of Readers.

 

Norfolk Public Library celebrates cultural months to promote learning, and to increase understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity. Are you interested in making a suggestion for future cultural programs? Please send your comments to: npl.comments@norfolk.gov