Libraries in Kingston are celebrating Black History Month 2021 with new displays, and are encouraging local readers to explore work by Black writers.
All seven library branches in the Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames have set up their own displays to highlight noteworthy texts by Black authors. The selections draw from a variety of genres, and include books suitable for both adult and younger readers.
In a recent Instagram post, Kingston Libraries said: “Today marks the beginning of Black History Month and here at Kingston Libraries we decided to celebrate it as we do best: with a marvellous collection of books, a mixture of fiction and non-fiction.
“Visit one of our branches or check out our digital collections on Libby and BorrowBox and explore Black history and experiences.”
Staff at Kingston Library said they hoped that the displays and digital collection would help all of their customers to feel represented and included.
Kingston Council marked the beginning of Black History Month with a statement from Councillor Thay Thayalan. He noted the area’s “rich black history”, and said that the contributions of Black communities helped to shape Kingston.
“Black History Month is also a time to reflect upon the deep structural inequalities that still exist, across every corner of the world, as has been laid bare over the past eighteen months,” Thayalan said.
“However, we can be proud of the diverse and modern Kingston we are now and how, time and again, we have stood up against racism and discrimination in all of its forms.”
Kingston Council released its new ‘Inclusive Kingston’ strategy at the end of September. The document outlines the council’s plans to support disadvantaged communities, and reduce inequalities in the local area.
