The brainchild of Library Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Brenda R. Simmons-Hutchins and the late Clovia Russell of AT&T, the Black History Calendar focuses on African-American citizens who contributed to the growth and development of Jacksonville. "The 2013 calendar continues the tradition with an added element of wisdom and insight from some of the First Coast's most promising citizens," said Dr. Simmons-Hutchins.

 

This year’s calendar theme reflects the national theme for Black History Month: “At the Crossroads of Freedom and Equality: The Emancipation Proclamation and the March on Washington.” This timely theme was chosen because 2013 marks the 150th anniversary of the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation by President Abraham Lincoln and the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington. The annual theme for Black History Month is designated by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History.

 

Patricia Morrison, library supervisor and co-chair of the calendar committee, said the calendar provides insight into historic events of the past, but remains relevant to this day. She noted that the calendar typically includes a local slant, tying in with individuals or events of the First Coast community. Morrison described the calendar as “unique, informative and thought provoking.” The calendar’s theme implies matters about civil rights, but the artwork and contents of the calendar will be kept secret until the event.

 

“People don’t know what’s in the calendar until it gets to the library,” said Morrison. “That’s part of the fun of it. People anticipate it ahead of time and are very pleased with what they see. It has great local appeal. Hundreds come out for it.”

 

The title sponsor for the calendar is Burger King Restaurants, in collaboration with Florida State College at Jacksonville, Dr. Pepper, First Coast News WTLV-NBC 12/WJXX-ABC25, the Jacksonville Public Library and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History - James Weldon Johnson Branch. The Jacksonville Public Library, with its African-American collection, serves as the primary research arm for the calendar, according to Morrison.

 

The free calendar will be available at the unveiling event. Additional calendars can be picked up at library branch locations in February. The calendar also includes coupons from participating Burger King Restaurant locations.

 

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call630-BOOK (2665).

 

The Jacksonville Public Library is committed to making its programs accessible to all persons. If you need special accommodations, please call 630-BOOK (2665) (TTY 630-1999) at least 72 hours prior to the event. 

  

The Jacksonville Public Library provided more than 11,000 programs and services last year to Duval County residents at the Main Library and 20 branch locations.  Nearly 4.5 million people visited Jacksonville Public Libraries and checked out almost 8.5 million items.  For more information about the Jacksonville Public Library, call 630-BOOK (2665) or visit jaxpubliclibrary.org.