Each February, Canadians come together to honour Black History Month, a time to recognize the legacy, achievements, and ongoing contributions of Black communities across the country. This year’s theme, “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations - From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries,” is a reminder that Black history is not just a chapter in the past, but a living, evolving story shaping Canada’s present and future.
Libraries are one of the few public spaces where anyone can freely explore the stories of Black Canadians who helped shape the nation. Figures such as Pearleen (Borden) Oliver, a human rights leader, writer, historian and community activist who fought to remove discriminatory barriers, or The Honourable Lincoln M. Alexander, Canada’s first Black Member of Parliament and a lifelong advocate for equity. *
It’s this celebration of trailblazers and cultural icons that makes libraries such a pivotal part of our communities. By honoring achievements through the sharing of stories in books and films, libraries remain one of the last community spaces where people can discover new perspectives, challenge assumptions, and help shine a spotlight on today’s innovators, thinkers, and visionaries.
Whether someone is discovering the history of Black communities in Nova Scotia, exploring contemporary Black Canadian literature, or learning about young leaders transforming their fields, libraries are committed to making these stories and achievements accessible for all Canadians.
As we mark 30 years of Black History Month in Canada, this moment is both commemorative and forward-thinking. It’s an opportunity to honour legacy, celebrate excellence, and empower the next generation. Your local library is the perfect place to begin that journey, and we invite you to take a moment this month to enjoy a story or film from our shelves or explore one of our curated lists below.
*Source: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/
As we commemorate Black History Month, explore these fiction titles with a variety of genres and formats, geared towards both Adults and Teens.
This list celebrates Black History Month with powerful and informative works that center Black voices, achievements, and lived experiences. From biographies and memoirs to history and social justice, these titles highlight the past while connecting it to the present. Together, these titles offer readers meaningful opportunities to learn, reflect, and honor the impact of Black individuals and communities throughout history and today.
A book list celebrating Black History Month for children. It introduces young readers to heroes from the past, changemakers of today, and everyday kids whose experiences help broaden empathy and understanding. These books often blend history with engaging storytelling, making big ideas—like fairness, identity, and community—accessible to young minds.
Biblio+ offers a wide range of movies and documentaries celebrating Black History Month. Click on the image below to view a curated viewing list.
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