February 2011

Norfolk, VA (February 10, 2011) – Throughout February, Norfolk Public Library is hosting special events to recognize the extraordinary achievements of African-Americans and their essential role in shaping our nation’s history.

The 2011 Black History Month 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 riveting musical performances by the Elliott Family String Quartet.    

Come and discover the abundance of literary resources available at your library on African-American history, and celebrate with us by attending a quality program below. For a complete listing of programs, pick up an 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

Wynn Jackson Performers & Company

Thursday, February 10 @ 5:30 PM

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

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)

The African-American Experience in Hampton Roads during the Civil War

Presented by: Dr. Cassandra Newby-Alexander  

Saturday, February 12 @ 2:00 PM 

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

2^nd Floor Conference Room

This program is sponsored by the historians of the Sargeant Memorial Collection, and presented by Dr. Cassandra Newby-Alexander, an accomplished author and associate professor of history at Norfolk State University. The Civil War was one of the greatest upheavals in American history and left few lives untouched. It was especially cataclysmic for African-Americans. Dr. Alexander will discuss the impact of The Civil War on African-Americans in Hampton Roads and the difficulties they faced. (Adults)

Meet Learn & Discover Series: The History of the New Journal & Guide

Presented by: Brenda Andrews

Wednesday, February 16 @ 6:00 PM

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

Publisher Brenda Andrews will talk about the 21st century New Journal and Guide and the historical contributions it has made to the Norfolk story for 111 years. For more information, please call 664-7310. (Adults)

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

Elliott 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. See the Elliotts perform at four NPL locations this year! (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. 29^th Street ~ 664-7330

Sunday, February 27 @ 2:00 PM

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

Gospel Fest 2011 (Sponsored by Blyden Branch Library)

Saturday, February 26 @ 2:30 PM

Park Place Community Center (Multipurpose Room) ~ 620 W. 29^th Street ~ 441-2852

Blyden Branch’s annual gospel concert, featuring the Butts Family, Hope Danne of A.B.R.W. Studios, The Preachers and other performers, will surely uplift your spirits with songs of faith and hope. (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.