Students, faculty and staff highlight cultural contributions of African American authors, poets and songwriters

As a part of Black History Month, UMKC Libraries participated in The Twenty-Second National African American Read-In, which is sponsored by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). UMKC Libraries hosted its second 2011 read-in event on Wednesday, Feb. 23 at Miller Nichols Library’s new first-floor Information Exchange (iX) Theatre. The first read-in was took place on Feb. 8.

UMKC students, faculty and staff read book excerpts, recited poems and performed dramatic and musical enactments to highlight the cultural contributions of African American authors, poets and songwriters.

“Last year’s Read-In far exceeded our expectations,” said Gloria Tibbs, Information Commons/Instruction Librarian at Miller Nichols Library. “This year, we’ll build upon that success by making the celebration of African American literacy a traditional part of Black History Month activities and developing programs and exhibits that celebrate diversity.”

Held during Black History Month, the African-American Read-In is one of the UMKC Libraries’ most successful programs.

The National African American Read-In has been endorsed by the International Reading Association, and more than a million readers of all ethnic groups from the United States, the District of Columbia, the West Indies, African countries and more have participated.

Part of Miller Nichols Library’s first-floor renovations and Information Commons, the iX Theatre is adjacent to the library’s future Robot Cafe. When not in use for performances, the iX Theatre area is set with movable whiteboards, tables and chairs for flexible student study and work space. During performances, the area is reconfigured to seat as many as 60 guests. It is fitted with adjustable, theatrical lighting, two mounted overhead projectors and screens that retract into the ceiling.

Following is an audio slideshow from last year’s African American Read-In.