• MLK, Jr. Book Displays/ “Marching Boot” Window Display

Richardson Public Library, First and Third Floors

Free; viewable during regular Library hours

Through January

Celebrate the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by learning about his legacy, the Civil Rights Movement, and the black experience in the 1960s. Library staff have curated several displays featuring more than 40 books/DVDs on these topics; books may be taken directly from the displays for reading and/or to check out. The displays are located on the first floor near the elevators; in Youth Services; and on the third floor.

In addition, Youth Services has a display explaining the concept of marching as a form of peaceful protest, and is inviting children to write on a pre-cut paper “marching boot” their answer to the question, “If you could change something, what would it be?” Library visitors may then view the boots as they are taped to the large glass window in Youth Services.

  • UT Dallas Virtual Celebration Breakfast Jan. 20

Online via Microsoft Teams

Cost: Free (Register here to join)

Thursday, Jan. 20

8:30-9:30 a.m.

Bring your breakfast and join the UT Dallas Multicultural Center online as they host “The Urgency of Creating the Beloved Community.”  This MLK birthday celebration features keynote speaker Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew, who will discuss how Dr. King’s notion of a “beloved community” can expand globally.

  • MLK, Jr. Essay Contest
    Eligible entrants: Students in 4th-12th grade; must reside within the City of Richardson and/or attend an RISD or PISD school within Richardson city limits.
    Cost per entry: Free
    Submission deadline: Jan. 31

    Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.” In this second annual contest sponsored by the Richardson City Council, students are asked to write an essay in 500 words or less about what issue they would “shine a light on” if they had the opportunity, and why. Winners in each age group/category receive $100 and recognition at a City Council meeting.

Rules/more information: www.cor.net/ArtandEssayContest

  • Black History Month Art Contest
    Eligible entrants: PreK-12th grade; must reside within the City of Richardson and/or attend an RISD or PISD school within Richardson city limits.
    Cost per entry: Free
    Submission deadline: Feb. 28

    In this second annual contest sponsored by the Richardson City Council, students are asked to create a visual image that displays how their unique beliefs and values contribute to our diverse community and help promote inclusion. Winners in each age group/category receive $100 and recognition at a City Council meeting.

    Rules/more information: www.cor.net/ArtandEssayContest
  • Black History Month Bookmark Contest

Eligible entrants: Children and teens ages 5-18

Cost per entry: Free

Submission deadline: Thursday, Jan. 20

Illustrate an important person or event from past or modern Black history for a chance to see your art in print–the winning designs (one for children, one for teens) will be featured on new bookmarks that will be available in Youth Services during February. (Check out last year’s winners in a display currently set up in Youth Services.)

Contest sheets are available at the Youth Services Desk.

More information: 972-744-4358