MLK
The Negro Motorist Green Book
One of the year’s standout moments at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library was hosting The Negro Motorist Green Book exhibition: a powerful, eye-opening experience developed by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in collaboration with acclaimed author, photographer, and cultural documentarian Candacy Taylor. Through photographs and historical documents, visitors experienced the realities of travel for African Americans during the Jim Crow era. The Green Book itself served as an essential guide for African American travelers, offering a lifeline of safe places to eat, sleep, and refuel, and symbolizing both resilience and the rise of the Black middle class in mid-century America.
To bring this national story home, DC Public Library created a powerful companion exhibit: The Green Book in D.C.: “A Particular Place for Particular People.” This locally focused experience took a deep dive into the history of more than 150 businesses and organizations in the District that were listed in the original Green Book — from beauty salons and hotels to nightclubs and restaurants. We didn’t stop there: a capsule version of the local exhibit also traveled to eight neighborhood libraries across the city, helping bring this important piece of D.C. history directly into our communities.
Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson speaking about her book, Lovely One at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library.
AUTHOR TALKS
At DC Public Library, we believe in the power of stories. In 2024, we were thrilled to welcome some of the most inspiring storytellers of our time to share theirs with our community.
A true highlight of the year was welcoming Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, where she spoke about her book, Lovely One, in a heartfelt and engaging conversation that captivated audiences of all ages.
We were equally honored to host Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and creator of The 1619 Project, Nikole Hannah-Jones, for a powerful conversation with Glory Edim, founder of Well-Read Black Girl. Their discussion explored the ongoing legacy of slavery in America, and the role of literature in shaping a more just future.
These author events brought our mission to life, sparking dialogue, deepening understanding, and reminding us all why libraries matter.
Democracy in an Age of Uncertainty panel, in partnership with the French Embassy's Villa Albertine. From left to right, Moderator Steve Clemons (Contributing Editor, The National Interest), Nicole Hannah Jones (Creator, The 1619 Project; Staff Writer, The New York Times Magazine), Piotr Smolar (Senior Correspondent, Le Monde, and Camille Francois, Columbia University).
Women Behind The Mic: A Celebration of Women in Hip Hop
Women’s History Month hit a high note at DC Public Library with an unforgettable celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, spotlighting the women who’ve shaped the music industry from behind the scenes.
The event featured a dynamic panel discussion and electrifying musical performances with an all-star lineup of veteran music executives, including Jamise Harper, Dr. LaJoyce Brookshire, Pamela Crockett, Thomasina Perkins, and Audra Washington Madison. Guests were treated to an energizing set by DJ Heat and a show-stopping appearance by YO-YO, the Grammy-nominated artist, actress, educator, and philanthropist.
The celebration highlighted the book series, Women Behind The Mic: Curators of Pop Culture — Volumes One ("Word to the Wise") and Two ("The Hip Hop Edition"). These volumes capture the stories of the women responsible for launching and shaping some of the most iconic hip-hop and pop artists of all time.
It was more than a panel. It was a tribute, a party, and a powerful reminder that women have always been at the heart of the culture.
Washington Wizards Reading Tour
We kicked off the school year in style with a back-to-school bash that brought big smiles, essential supplies, and a little star power! DC Public Library teamed up with the Washington Wizards for a fun-filled, family-friendly event that made getting ready for school something to celebrate.
Students and families picked up free back-to-school materials while enjoying special appearances from G-Wiz and the always-energetic Wizards Dancers, who brought the energy and excitement to a whole new level. It was the perfect blend of fun, community, and support to help our young learners start the school year strong.
