civil rights movement

  • Where Is Dr. King Living Today?

    Where Is Dr. King Living Today?

    At the start of every year, we celebrate the life and achievements of Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Although his life on Earth ended in 1968, his words and deeds inspired many people to carry on his life’s work right up to this very day. For your own inspiration, here are some of their stories… Continue reading

  • Black History in Fiction

    Each February, many readers come to the library to check out the latest titles on Black history. Don’t read history books? No worries! Whether you enjoy historical or literary fiction, thrillers or fantasy, romance or mysteries, here are some recent books that immerse us in the lived experiences of Black Americans throughout our history. By… Continue reading

  • Take a walk with MLK Jr. this Monday

    Take a walk with MLK Jr. this Monday

    Last year around this time, as folks surfing wave after pandemic wave faced a difficult decision of whether to gather together on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we suggested for those staying home a streamable festival of films about MLK and the fight for Civil Rights. Now that more of us are feeling comfortable out… Continue reading

  • A History of Seattle Police: Part 2, East Precinct – Controversy from the Start

    A History of Seattle Police: Part 2, East Precinct – Controversy from the Start

    Content Warning: This post links to an historical newspaper article that uses the term “homosexuals,” which is an outdated term used to characterize gay people as having a psychological disorder. In response to local interest on the history of policing in Seattle and community-driven police reform movements, Shelf Talk presents a three-part series that dives… Continue reading

  • A History of Seattle Police: Part 1, Accountability

    A History of Seattle Police: Part 1, Accountability

    Recent events have again highlighted long standing discussions on public safety, the appropriate use of force, the goals and mission of police forces, and accountability to the public, among related topics. In Seattle, how have these conversations changed over time, and what lessons might we find in the past to provide direction and shape public… Continue reading

  • Seattle Rep’s NINA SIMONE: FOUR WOMEN: Beyond the Theatre

    Seattle Repertory Theatre presents NINA SIMONE: FOUR WOMEN by Christina Ham from April 26 to June 2, 2019. Librarians at Seattle Public Library created this list of books, music and films to enhance your experience of the show. Nina Simone’s “Four Women” is a haunting, critical exploration of racial stereotypes and the legacy of slavery… Continue reading