African American Read-In Chain

The Jackson District Library and the Jackson Branch of the NAACP will host the first African American Read-In Chain for Jackson County on February 23, 2019. During the month of February, schools, churches, libraries, community and professional organizations are urged to make literacy a significant part of African American History Month by displaying and promoting the works of African American authors.

Jackson County residents, inclusive of all ages and nationalities, may sign-up to read a selection from a book, recite a poem or choose a portion from a book all written by an African American author during this Community Read-In.

The finale will feature Kevin Collins and his Kuungana African Drum and Dance Company of Flint, MI. Their energetic dance moves and the vibrant sounds of African drums will weave together the excitement of literacy and cultural. Be a part of this celebratory event as Jackson County joins the “chain” of over 6 million participants reading works by African American authors.

Originated through the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English in 1989, the event is now supported by the National Council of Teachers of English and endorsed by the International Reading Association.

Contact the Community Engagement Department of the Jackson District Library for more information. Call at 517-788-4099 ext. 1317 or email at CEdepartment@myjdl.com.

Eastern Movie Matinee: “Black History Month”

Swing by the Eastern Branch as we celebrate Black History Month as part of our Thursday Movie Matinees!

Join us for some great films all month long. Widescreen, comfortable seats and popcorn, too! Thursday afternoons starting at 2 p.m. Movie synopses from imdb.com.

David Oyelowo, Lupita Nyong'o, and Madina Nalwanga in Queen of Katwe (2016)

February 7: Queen of Katwe (2016, PG) starring Madina Nalwanga, David Oyelowo, and Lupita Nyong’o

A Ugandan girl sees her world rapidly change after being introduced to the game of chess.

Eastern Movie Matinee: “Black History Month”

Swing by the Eastern Branch as we celebrate Black History Month as part of our Thursday Movie Matinees!

Join us for some great films all month long. Widescreen, comfortable seats and popcorn, too! Thursday afternoons starting at 2 p.m. Movie synopses from imdb.com.

Denzel Washington in Malcolm X (1992)

February 14: Malcolm X (1992, PG-13) starring Denzel Washington, Angela Bassett, and Delroy Lindo

Biographical epic of the controversial and influential Black Nationalist leader, from his early life and career as a small-time gangster, to his ministry as a member of the Nation of Islam.

Eastern Movie Matinee: “Black History Month”

Swing by the Eastern Branch as we celebrate Black History Month as part of our Thursday Movie Matinees!

Join us for some great films all month long. Widescreen, comfortable seats and popcorn, too! Thursday afternoons starting at 2 p.m. Movie synopses from imdb.com.

Denzel Washington and Viola Davis in Fences (2016)

February 21: Fences (2016, PG-13) starring Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, and Stephen McKinley Henderson

A working-class African-American father tries to raise his family in the 1950s while coming to terms with the events of his life.

Eastern Movie Matinee: “Black History Month”

Swing by the Eastern Branch as we celebrate Black History Month as part of our Thursday Movie Matinees!

Join us for some great films all month long. Widescreen, comfortable seats and popcorn, too! Thursday afternoons starting at 2 p.m. Movie synopses from imdb.com.

Selma (2014)

February 28: Selma (2014, PG-13) starring David Oyelowo, Carmen Ejogo, and Tim Roth

A chronicle of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s campaign to secure equal voting rights via an epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, in 1965.