Long Beach Public Library Celebrates Black History Month 2026 With Return of “For the Culture”
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Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach, CA - The Long Beach Public Library (LBPL) is excited to announce the return of "For the Culture," a month-long celebration in honor of Black History Month. This community-centered event will showcase Black history, culture, and creativity through a series of free events. In 2026, the focus will be on visual artists and their essential role in shaping cultural storytelling and creative expression.

Mayor Rex Richardson expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating that "Long Beach is a city that celebrates culture, creativity, and community." He believes that "For the Culture" is a powerful reflection of these values. By uplifting Black artists and storytellers, the Long Beach Public Library aims to connect residents to their shared history while creating spaces for learning, joy, and belonging.

The celebration will kick off with an event presented in partnership with Forgotten Images and the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach. This free community event will take place on Friday, February 6 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at the African American Cultural Center (4321 Atlantic Ave.). Attendees can expect cultural programming and local vendors showcasing unique artist-made goods. There will also be interactive art experiences to highlight creative expression.

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Cathy De Leon, Director of the Department of Library, Arts and Culture, emphasized the library's commitment to creating inclusive spaces for all community members. She stated that "'For the Culture' reflects our commitment to creating spaces where community members of all ages and backgrounds feel seen, welcomed, and inspired." By centering Black artists, stories, and lived experiences, they hope to celebrate Black history not only as the past but as a living force that continues to shape their city.

"For the Culture" is designed for families and community members of all ages to celebrate Black joy, identity, self-care, and artistic expression. Throughout February, LBPL locations across the city will host additional programs centered on visual arts and cultural storytelling. These activities will include hands-on workshops, interactive storytimes, trivia, bingo, and more. All programs are free and require no registration. The Long Beach Public Library events calendar will have full event details and updates.

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The month-long celebration will conclude with Jazz in the Library, a special after-hours event presented in partnership with Black Art Distrikt and the Radical Hood Library. This event will take place on February 27, 2026, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Los Altos Neighborhood Library (5614 Britton Dr.). The library will be transformed into a cultural lounge featuring live jazz and poetry for an evening of music, spoken word, and reflection.

The Long Beach Public Library is committed to providing inclusive and impactful cultural programming through collaboration with local cultural leaders and Black-led organizations. For the Feb. 6 event, the library worked closely with Forgotten Images to ensure a meaningful experience for the community.

This programming for Black History Month is made possible through the generous support of the Port of Long Beach and the Long Beach Public Library Foundation. The LBPL hopes that "For the Culture" will continue to be a powerful celebration of Black history, culture, and creativity for years to come.

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