The Black Studies Program presents an African American Book-to-Film series to promote the work of African American authors whose books became motion pictures.

This series will provide an opportunity to learn about African American authors who not only wrote best sellers, but whose books were made into motion pictures or made-for-TV movies from 1970 to 2005.  The films will be shown at the Plaza Branch of the Kansas City Public Library (4801 Main Street) or at Miller Nichols Library Learning Center (Room 151) throughout February.  Each screening will include a reception and a discussion of the author and the influence of the book/film with a guest speaker.

Details about the series:

Tuesday, Feb. 3, 6pm at Kansas City Public Library, Plaza Branch (4801 Main St.):  “Lady Sings the Blues”

Thursday, Feb. 5, 6pm at Miller Nichols Library Learning Center, room 151:  “Cotton Comes to Harlem”

Tuesday, Feb. 10, 6pm at Kansas City Public Library, Plaza Branch:  “The Spook Who Sat by the Door”

Tuesday, Feb. 17, 5:30pm at Kansas City Public Library, Plaza Branch:  “Malcolm X”

Thursday, Feb. 19, 6pm at Miller Nichols Library Learning Center, room 151:  “Devil in a Blue Dress”

Tuesday, Feb. 24, 6pm at Kansas City Public Library, Plaza Branch:  “Their Eyes Were Watching God”

The series is free and open to the public. RSVP is requested by calling 816-235-2636.

For additional information, contact the Black Studies Program or visit the Black Studies website.

This a collaboration between the Black Studies Program, the Kansas City Public Library, the Black Archives of Mid-America and the UMKC Libraries. Funding for the series is provided by the R. C. Kemper Charitable Trust & Foundation, UMB Bank, N.A. Trustee.