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The Indianapolis Public Library’s Center for Black Literature & Culture will host several free events next year including book talks, artist workshops, a movie series and a media arts and science program.
Abriana Herron / WFYIThe Indianapolis Public Library’s Center for Black Literature & Culture, or the CBLC, recently announced a series of programs for 2025.
The center will host several free events, including book talks, artist workshops, a movie series and a media arts and science program.
“I hope to see so many people who become inspired by this programming,” said CBLC manager Alexus Hunt. “I always say the community is really the voice of this space, and we really want to honor that.”
Hunt became the manager in April after Nichelle Hayes, the former director, announced her leave from the library. Hayes was backed by the community during a 2022 search for a new library CEO after the longtime leader resigned amid accusations of racism and ableism.
Hunt hopes new programming can help the organization move forward from years of controversy.
“In order to make change, we have to acknowledge it, and we have to do what we can, when we can,” Hunt said. “Meaning that when we hold these positions and leadership and when we acknowledge things that have happened, we can move forward. We can bring the community together.”
The CBLC will kick off its events in January with a local artist workshop. All programs will be free.
Melanated Movie Monday’s will be a weekly event held in February. It will feature films celebrating Black culture across several genres. The CBLC partnered with the Black film center at IU Bloomington to host the movie series.
In March residents can learn about digital media, technology and innovation during the media arts and science program. Hunt said the center partnered with Indiana University Indianapolis to host this program, and said she's excited for people to experience it.
“Traditionally, there aren't a lot of people of color in the animation field,” she said. “Representation is very important, but also having the opportunity to know that this is even an option is very important.”
There will also be an exhibit that showcases local Black artists work in early 2025, from written pieces to youth artwork.
Exact dates of the events are still being finalized.
Contact WFYI Morning Edition newscaster and reporter Abriana Herron at aherron@wfyi.org.
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