Calvert Library has an exciting lineup of events this summer for Calvert County residents. Highlights include the summer reading challenge, #calvertREADS, featuring fabulous prizes and inspiring challenges, and hosting two major authors and six performers throughout the summer.
The first author event is with Michelle Coles, a civil rights attorney and author of the award-winning young adult book “Black Was the Ink.” Coles will join virtually on Saturday, June 1, with watch parties at each Calvert Library location, or participants can join from anywhere online. Her book tells the story of Malcolm, a Black teen from DC who travels back in time to the Reconstruction Era, learning about Black heroes and advocacy.
The event will begin at 1 p.m. with a fun history trivia quiz using Kahoot, followed by Coles’ talk and Q&A session at 2 p.m. Local high school students and members of LEAP Forward’s National Society of Black Engineers, Jr. will assist with the technology and share projects related to the Reconstruction Era.
President of Calvert NAACP Debora Harris expressed her excitement, saying, “We are delighted to partner with Calvert Library to showcase Black authors and make a more complete history accessible to our young citizens. In addition to celebrating Black heroes, ‘Black Was the Ink’ teaches advocacy skills that will serve teens into the future.” Sinetra Bowdry, President of Concerned Black Women of Calvert County, added, “There are so many examples of Black leadership in our history and we are happy to support authors who share those stories. I hope we have standing room only to celebrate the young people taking leadership roles in these watch parties.”
Participants can attend this event in person at any Calvert Library location and kick off the #calvertREADS summer reading festivities. Activities include a scavenger hunt, free t-shirts while supplies last, and fantastic prizes throughout the summer for completing activities on the gameboard. Prizes include gift cards, a Kindle, Nintendo Switch, weighted blanket, robotics kit, playset, and telescope.
The second major author event features Newbery and Coretta Scott King Award-winning author Amina Luqman-Dawson, known for her book “Freewater.” Luqman-Dawson will appear in person at Calvert Library Twin Beaches Branch on Tuesday, June 18, at 6:30 p.m.
Registration is required as seating is limited to 150 attendees. Books will be available for sale and signing. “Freewater” is a story of bravery, friendship, and history, loosely based on Maroon communities in the South, making it a great way to begin Juneteenth celebrations.
In addition to these author events, Calvert Library will host several fun summer performances. These include Culture Queen, Maryland Science Center, Didgeridoo Down Under, Reptile World, Meki’s Tamure Polynesian Arts, and a magic show. More details can be found at calvertlibrary.info or by calling Robyn Truslow at 410-535-0291.
