The Camden County Freeholder Board and the Camden County Library System are presenting a wide-ranging schedule of events throughout February to celebrate Black History Month. This month-long commemoration of African-American history throughout our nation was originally marked in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson.
“From an African American film series to African heritage cooking classes, there is truly something for everyone this month,” said Freeholder Jonathan Young. “The events planned by the Camden County Library System will excite, inspire and celebrate the rich history of the African-American Community.”
Upcoming are:
Nilsa I. Cruz-Perez Downtown Camden Branch
301 North 5th Street, Camden
African American Film Festival
Ages 18 and up
Tuesdays, February 7, 14, 21, 28, 12:30 p.m.
See new or classic films that celebrate and explore the Black experience.
Dinner and a Movie Celebrates Black History Month
Ages 12 and under
Thursday, February 16, 5:30 p.m.
Enjoy a simple supper and watch a great movie on the big screen.
Riletta L. Cream Branch
852 Ferry Avenue, Camden
African American Film Festival, Thursdays, 3 p.m.:
February 2 – “Lean on Me” 1989, starring Morgan Freeman
February 9 – “Love and Basketball” 2000, starring Omar Epps
February 16 – “The Color Purple” 1985, starring Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover
February 23 – “Ray” 2004, starring Jamie Foxx
George Crum and the Saratoga Chip
Ages 6 – 12
Friday, February 10, 3:30 p.m.
As part of Black History Month, learn about African-American chef George Crum, who is credited with inventing potato chips. Potato chip taste-testing follows the story.
A Taste of African Heritage Cooking Class
All ages
Saturdays, Feb. 11, 18, 25, March 4, Times vary by date – see below
The African Heritage Diet is a way of eating based on the healthy food traditions of people with African roots. This healthy way of eating is powerfully nutritious and delicious, and naturally meets the guidelines experts recommend for supporting good health. People who sign up for this program are requested to attend all four sessions.
February 11, 1:30 p.m.-3:30 pm
February 18, 2:30 pm-4:30pm
February 25, 1:00-3:00 pm
March 4, 1:30-3:30pm
Hip-Hop Jazz Musicology,
All ages
Wednesday, February 15, 3:30 p.m.
Learn the history of African-American music from its roots in Africa to modern day hip-hop. Featuring multi-instrumentalist musician Ali Richardson.
M. Allan Vogelson Regional Branch Library
203 Laurel Road, Voorhees
Black History Month Story Time
All Ages
Thursday, February 16, 7 p.m.
Celebrate Black History Month with stories and special guests!
South County Regional Branch Library
35 Cooper Folly Road, Winslow Township
‘I Have a Dream’ Open Mic Night
Ages 9 and up
Friday, February 17, 6:30 p.m.
I Have a Dream! What is yours? Be inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King’s 1963 “I Have a Dream” speech by writing your own speech. On Friday, February 17, we will have an Open Mic Night where people can read their speech or have it read by a friend. Audience members can vote for their favorite speech. Prizes will be awarded.
Registration for any event is available online at www.camdencountylibrary.org/events or by calling the local branch.