Black History Month in Wandsworth Libraries

This October, Wandsworth Libraries proudly celebrates Black History Month under the powerful theme of Leadership and Pride - two values that have shaped the past, defined the present, and inspired the future of communities across Britain and here in Wandsworth.

Leadership is not just about titles - it’s about vision, courage, and the ability to effect meaningful change. Black leaders have long stood at the forefront of movements for justice, equality, and cultural transformation. From civil rights pioneers to trailblazers in education, business, and the arts, their legacies remind us that leadership is rooted in community, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of a better tomorrow for future generations.

In Wandsworth, we honour figures like Alex Wheatle MBE, whose literary voice and mentorship empowered generations of young people. We celebrate educators, activists, and everyday heroes whose leadership continues to shape our borough and enrich our libraries.

Throughout Black History Month, our libraries will host author talks, exhibitions, workshops, and community events that reflect the themes of Leadership and Pride. We invite everyone to explore, learn, and celebrate the contributions of Black people to British life—and to Wandsworth itself.

To learn more about Black History Month in Wandsworth Libraries, the events and people taking part, please visit this page

Story Catchers exhibition: We Are Somebody 

An exhibition showcasing Wandsworth’s hidden heritage through the stories of local elders  

For generations, African, Caribbean and Asian diasporic communities have woven themselves into the fabric of the UK, shaping its culture, economy, and society. The stories of older people from these communities in Wandsworth are a powerful testimony to this journey. Many of them have worked in hospitals, kitchens and schools whilst laying down roots and finding a place to call home. This exhibition is on display until November.

6.30-7.30pm Online
Paul Bridges, Pilar Nalwimba, and Chelhie Walters 

Modern Media Platforms and Black History for the Future 

This webinar is ideal for educators, creatives, historians, and anyone passionate about cultural preservation and innovation.Paul Bridges is a multi-talented entrepreneur best known for his appearance on the hit reality series Blue Therapy. Book online at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/modern-media-platforms-and-black-history-for-the-future-tickets-1670638798619   

 

3.30-4.30pm Putney Library
Hair Art Workshop
A workshop encouraging children to show a reflection of their hair through artistic expression
6-7pm Tooting Library 

Gary Gibbs, Fighting talk  

In this collection, I aim to present you with thought-provoking poetry that traverses a wide spectrum of emotions and experiences. From the plaintive to the joyous, these poems explore the complexities of love, hate, loss, and the political landscape. 

 

4.30-5.30pm Balham Library
Echoes of Culture 

Echoes of Culture brings stories to life through the heartbeat of the drum. This Black History Month, join us for an engaging session filled with interactive storytelling and rhythmic drumming. Families and children will journey through tales that celebrate courage, kindness, and cultural pride — an inspiring, joyful experience for all. 

 

6.30-8pm Battersea Library BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Helen McDonald, Future Groove 
A musical journey through Jazz Funk soul and blues Future Groove will play classic songs and Original tunes to take you on a Jazz Funk soul musical History journey. From Billie Holiday to James Brown with Future Groove, Helen McDonald vocals and stories, Yul Emirali piano , Paul Zimmerman drums and Leslee Booth bass guitar. 

 

Creative Connections: A Black History Month Card-Making Workshop 

This session is a great way to spend time with friends or family, kids, parents, grandparents, neighbours, all are welcome! We’ll share stories, honour heritage, and express creativity in a welcoming space. Coming alone? You’ll still be in good company. Our workshops are friendly and inclusive, and we make sure everyone feels part of the group. No experience needed, we’ll provide everything and guide each other along the way. We’ll finish with our own handmade cards to treasure—or to pass on to someone special. 

 

11am-1pm York Gardens Library 

Black entrepreneurship across Africa and the Diaspora  

Loretta Awuah's workshop will look at early examples of commerce and raising finance in Africa and the diaspora, as well as showcasing famous black entrepreneurs in Africa, the Caribbean, North and South America and the UK, before examining the current state of affairs concerning black business owners in the UK and available support. 

Loretta is the Strategic Business Support Manager at Better overseeing our Start Up services. Book a free ticket at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/black-entrepreneurship-and-food-across-africa-and-the-diaspora-tickets-1652216065729 
 

6-7pm Putney Library
London’s Black Sojourners: Legendary Lodgers Living Next Door 

Avril Horsford has enjoyed a long career in senior positions of university education; primarily at the University of the Arts London (UAL) as a Principal Lecturer and Departmental Head, in subjects which included Art and Design, Equality and Diversity and the training of university lecturers. Avril continues her interest in education by contributing to the V&A's educational programmes; including the delivery of the popular African Heritage and history tours, whilst also leading African Heritage tours at the Tate and the British Museum.
Book a free ticket at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/londons-black-sojourners-tickets-1670747604059  

 

6.30-10pm York Gardens Library
Women In Business Network: Standing Firm in Power and Pride
Ms Victoria Asante is an entrepreneur and the Founder & CEO of Women In Business Support Network (WIBSN). WIBSN is an initiative dedicated to empowering and supporting women entrepreneurs through collaborative resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Book a free ticket at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/standing-firm-in-power-and-pride-tickets-1670655889739   

 

10.30-11.30am Roehampton Library
Tales from the Table: Storytelling Through the Flavours of Home 

This is a warm and interactive storytelling session aimed at families and children aged 4-10years. Kamapala will share a story that celebrates African and Caribbean food traditions, focusing on themes of home, love, and culture. Children will be invited to explore ingredients (via props or pictures), talk about their favourite family meals, and create their own drawings or recipe cards to take home. 

 

Hair Art Workshop 

A workshop encouraging children aged 5+ to show a reflection of their hair through artistic expression
3-4pm York Gardens Library
Learn to braid workshop 

The workshop is a comprehensive approach to teaching braiding for children aged 5-15 years, focusing not only on the technical skills but also on building confidence and fostering community interaction. 

 

11am-1pm York Gardens Library
Cooking Workshop
Our Junior Culinary Explorers is a cooking course for Young People (Ages 5-14) is an exciting, hands-on programme designed to inspire healthy eating habits, build life skills, and ignite a passion for cooking in a fun, inclusive environment.
2-3pm York Gardens Library
Storytime with author Dominic Yoboué 
An interactive workshop celebrating stories that empower young readers aged 3-10. Participants will explore themes of identity, self-love, and creativity through activities inspired by my debut book, Kara. 

An immersive storytelling performance exploring the meaning of home across shifting landscapes. The Motherland Collective is a growing community of creatives committed to amplifying diverse voices through poetry, music, and storytelling. Our work is rooted in collaboration, cultural connection, and social impact.
Book a free ticket at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/geography-of-home-tickets-1668957108639?aff=oddtdtcreator&msockid=168318a8845260732d970eb685b26114