Black History Month

The 2026 theme for Black History Month is “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.” This year, we celebrate three decades of Black History Month in Canada by highlighting the incredible contributions of Black Canadians, past and present. At the Orillia Public Library, we’re inviting everyone to learn, explore, and connect through a lineup of fun and engaging programs that bring Black stories, achievements, and resilience to life.

Stories from the Underground Railroad

On Saturday, February 7, from 2 to 4:30 p.m., join us for Stories from the Underground Railroad, an all-ages, drop-in program that explores courage, resistance, community, and the pursuit of freedom, while also acknowledging the realities of slavery. Presented in partnership with the Orillia and Area Black Community Association, the program will be led by Alasoba Kelsy Braide, a local champion for change, and Doug Minter, Partnerships Sponsorship Manager for the Canadian Black Chamber. Everyone is welcome, no registration required.

Local Stories, Living History with the Sheffield Park Black History and Cultural Museum

On Saturday, February 21, from 2 to 3:30 p.m., Sylvia and Carolynn Wilson, co-owners of the Sheffield Park Black History and Cultural Museum, will present Local Stories, Living History. This visual and hands-on program traces Black history in Canada from African beginnings to Freedom Seekers, highlighting achievements and contributions of people of African descent. Participants will also have the opportunity to view museum exhibits. Sylvia and Carolynn Wilson are direct descendants of early Black pioneers in Simcoe and Grey Counties. Everyone welcome. REGISTER NOW.

Freedom Quilt Scavenger Hunt

Throughout February, families can explore the Freedom Quilt Scavenger Hunt in the Library’s Family Department. Inspired by the history of the Underground Railroad, this self-guided activity invites participants to search for hidden quilt pieces and learn the meanings behind traditional quilt symbols that conveyed messages of hope, guidance, and freedom.