Juneteenth

We love to share selections that demonstrate the range of our collection all year and we encourage you to explore these books with us this month! Considered the longest-running African American holiday, Juneteenth has been celebrated by African Americans since the 1800s and became a federal holiday in 2021. A combination of the words "June" and "nineteenth," it is celebrated on the anniversary of the order, issued by Major General Gordon Granger on June 19, 1865, proclaiming freedom for slaves in Texas.  

Juneteenth has been celebrated by African Americans since the 1800s and became a federal holiday in 2021. It is a combination of June and nineteenth and is celebrated on the anniversary of the order, issued by Major General Gordon Granger on June 19, 1865, proclaiming freedom for slaves in Texas. If you're still somewhat new to Juneteenth celebrations or you'd like to share the history with your children, the Library has books to help you out! Check out our book recommendations to learn more about the history of this holiday and the ways it's traditionally celebrated. 

Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Also known as Emancipation Day, Freedom Day or Black Independence Day, it has been celebrated annually on June 19 since 1865 in various parts of the country. Juneteenth became an official federal holiday on June 17, 2021. If you’re attending your first Juneteenth jubilee or looking for ways to celebrate, check out this booklist!