You are invited to the annual African American Read-In from the UMKC Libraries! Register to join us on Zoom on February 14, 2023 from 2:00-3:30 pm.

The African American Read-In is a celebration of African American literature and literacy. Participate by reading excerpts from poetry, speeches, stories, songs, and other works created by African American authors and artists. Or, just come to listen, reflect, and enjoy the presentations. Join us on February 14th as a listener or a presenter!

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required to receive the secure meeting link. Joining us on Zoom will not require a Zoom account.

Participate as a Presenter 

If you would like to read, perform, or share from poetry, speeches, stories, or other works of literature created by African American authors and artists, select Presenter on the registration form. In addition to your registration confirmation email, you will be contacted by email by a member of the African American Read-In planning committee with more information about choosing your piece to share, and what you can expect during our virtual Read-In. 

Looking for ideas on what you can share? Search for materials owned by the UMKC Libraries on African American history and experiences, or fiction, nonfiction, poetry, music, or other works by African American creators. Beginning February 1, visit the first floor of Miller Nichols Library to peruse a book display focused on African American authors. 

About the African American Read-In 

The African American Read-In was founded by Dr. Jerrie Cobb Scott, a member of the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English. The Caucus proposed the event in late 1989, and the first Read-In took place during Black History Month in 1990. Gloria Tibbs, a UMKC librarian until her retirement in 2021 and beloved mentor to many, founded the UMKC Libraries African American Read-In in 2010. We host our annual Read-In each February in memory of Gloria.