Events

Search the Children's Area for images of books by Black authors and illustrators. Find them all to receive a small prize.

Pick up a game sheet at the front of the library or at the Discovery Zone counter to get started.

Limited to one…

This Black History Month, let’s shine a spotlight on zoologist and entomologist Charles Henry Turner - a pioneer in the field of insect psychology. In addition to having the coolest mustache ever, Turner proved that insects can learn,…

Visit the library during open hours throughout the month of February to create a Soul Box. This powerful hands-on activity invites personal expression through art, messages, or memorials and encourages folding as a shared, healing…

Create a colorful quilt block inspired by traditional patterns; or make up your own special design at this special craft session inspired by the quiltmakers of the historic Gee’s Bend community. All ages and abilities welcome.

Made…

Learn about the Kalimba, the African thumb piano, and listen to a performance by Carl Winters, the King of Kalimba. His songbook includes original songs, gospel, jazz, blues, and pop. The Kalimba is an instrument of cultural,…

Mark Montgomery French presents a humorous, highly immersive, and historically accurate talk that uncovers the African-American roots of popular music genres that appear to be free of African-Americans. Utilizing a rich audiovisual…

Experience the vibrant heartbeat of Africa with world-renowned master percussionist Onye Onyemaechi in this immersive family-friendly celebration of rhythm and culture. Through a captivating blend of drumming, storytelling, and dance,…

Discover the deep history and cultural significance of Adinkra symbols in this interactive workshop. Choose a symbol that resonates with you—Adinkrahene (leadership), Sankofa (learning from the past), or Dwennimmen (strength with…

Oakland author and illustrator Robert Liu-Trujillo joins us for a Black Children's Book Week storytime! Robert will read from his picture book, Fresh Juice, in this interactive, call and response storytime, and you’ll get a…

Join us for an interactive, educational, and music-filled event to celebrate Black History Month. Onye Onyemaechi, a renowned African master percussionist, performer, author, and inspirational speaker, brings the joy and soul of African…

Phelicia Lang, local educator and author of the Tay and Friends book series, joins us for a Black Children's Book Week storytime! Phelicia will read stories about playful Tay and his science-empowered friend, Aleeyah, and kids can enjoy a…

Join us for a lively discussion of a classic book. Ask at the service desk to check out a copy of this month's title. February's book is: There Is Confusion, by Jessie Redmon Fauset.

Celebrate Black History Month with Mr. Boom Boom of Play Patrol. Unleash the rhythm within you and learn to play a range of West African hand drums, including the djembe and the talking drum. Join in an exhilarating dance and African…

Celebrate Black History Month by stepping into the drum circle and feeling the beat! 

Mister Boom Boom's African Drum Circle is coming to the Dougherty Station Library in February 2026. This hands-on musical journey brings the…

Experience the magic of Kirk Waller as he tells traditional African American stories through voice, music, and movement.

This free program is sponsored by the Library Foundation of Contra Costa. For special accommodation, please contact…