Black History

Toronto Public Library celebrates Black History with a collection of programs and special events that honour Black heritage, and consider the historical significance and contemporary contributions of Black activists and artists from around the world.

Upcoming Events

• Black History Month: The Life and Music of Oscar Peterson

  Thu Jan 23, 2020 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
  Location: North York Central Library

  In this lively and informative presentation, musicologist, Dr. Mike Daley discusses the astonishing contribution of Canadian jazz icon Oscar Peterson. From his Montreal beginnings through to his distinguished career as a comp...

• Black History Month: The Staple Singers, First Family of Song

  Wed Feb 05, 2020 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
  Location: North York Central Library

  This lecture will explore the music of the Staple Singers from their first gospel recording in 1953 to Mavis Staples' extraordinary solo career, culminating with Mavis being awarded the first Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Rock H...

• Black History Month: Mystic Drumz

  Sat Feb 08, 2020 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
  Location: Humber Bay

  Travel back in time and learn about some of the very first African instruments on the planet. In this interactive show, children dance across the world to find African and Afro-Cuban percussion instruments and the rhythms th...

All Events

Reading List

Curl up with one of these recommended reads for all ages. Or check out the Rita Cox Black and Caribbean Heritage Collection.

Support Heritage Collections

Help grow the Rita Cox Black and Caribbean Heritage Collection by donating to the Rita Cox Endowment Fund. Donate today at Toronto Public Library Foundation or at 416-393-7123.