The City will host numerous events throughout February 2026 to commemorate Black History Month.

The month will feature book clubs, presentations, crafting projects, and more, aimed at celebrating the impact Black Americans have had on our country, and educating people on the barriers Black Americans have faced, and still face today.

 Black Future Fest events

The Iowa City Senior Center and a group of community organizations are hosting events throughout the month of February to celebrate Afrofuturism. Learn more at the festival's website. 

Movie Crafternoon: The Princess and the Frog

Saturday, February 21, 2–3:30 p.m., Library Storytime Room
Enjoy a family-friendly movie with crafts and beignets in celebration of Black History Month.

Create and Paint Afrofuturistic Tiles Workshop with Dana

Sunday, February 22, 12:30 p.m., Library Storytime Room
Kids and families explore Afrofuturism and create painted tiles with the artist behind Iowa City’s Black History Month poster.

Book to Art Club: Alma Thomas Paintings

Tuesday, February 24, 4–5 p.m., Library Storytime Room
School-age children will learn about artist Alma Thomas through a picture book read-aloud and create artwork inspired by her abstract style.

Dream City Community Dinner & Concert

Friday, Feb. 27, 5:30 p.m., Dream City, 611 Southgate Ave.

Dream City is partnering with the Black Voices Project, Natural Talent Music, and others to host a free community dinner and free concert celebrating Black history and culture. Featured performers include University of Iowa Jazz professors. Everyone is welcome!

Also at the Library

In addition to in-person programs, the Library highlights educational resources that reflect community engagement, Black history, and civic learning inspired by the lives and leadership of Black changemakers. Digital collections available through Kanopy, Libby, and hoopla feature documentaries, films, speeches, and books that explore Black history, culture, resistance, and innovation all available anytime with a Library card.

For a complete schedule of Black History Month events and to learn more about programs for all ages, visit icpl.org/bhm.

Past events

Totally Tweens: Hand Stitched Constellation Cards

Wednesday, February 11, 4–5 p.m., Library Storytime Room
Tweens in grades 3–6 will learn about NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson and create a hand-stitched constellation card inspired by her legacy.

Reading the Future: Octavia Butler Panel Discussion

Saturday, February 14, 1:30–3 p.m., Library Meeting Room A and livestream
A panel exploring Kindred and Parable of the Sower, focusing on Afrofuturism, social change, and imagining collective futures.