Black History Month

Black History Month is celebrated in February and recognizes the contributions, triumphs, and achievements of Black Americans in history, culture, and society.

Designated Black History Month in 1986 by the U.S. Congress, the month-long celebration is an opportunity to “gain a deeper understanding and knowledge of the many contributions of Black Americans to our country and the world.”

Throughout the month and all year long, learn something new about the achievements of Black Americans and the events that shaped history through our library resources.

Events

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Exhibit

Charlie Ward's Heisman Trophy: The Bronze Legend
Today to June 1

Audience: all Location:
Leon County Main Library
Description:

See legendary Florida State University (FSU) quarterback and National Basketball Association (NBA) point guard Charlie Ward’s 1993 Heisman Trophy on display at the Leon County Main Library from February 1 through August 31, 2025.

The Heisman Memorial Trophy is awarded annually to the most outstanding player in college football. Winners epitomize great ability combined with diligence, perseverance, and hard work. Ward’s trophy is on loan from the Thomas County Public Library System in Thomasville, Georgia, while their library undergoes renovations.

About Charlie Ward

Charlie Ward was a stellar quarterback in football and an equally impressive point guard in basketball at FSU. During his senior year, he won more than 30 awards, including the Heisman Trophy, and set 19 school and seven Atlantic Coast Conference records, subsequently leading the FSU Seminoles to their first-ever National Championship under legendary Coach Bobby Bowden. After graduating from FSU with a bachelor’s degree, Ward was a first-round draft pick of the New York Knicks. He went on to play for the Knicks, helping the team consistently reach the playoffs six consecutive years from 1996 to 2001. In 2015, Ward and his wife, Tonja, established a charitable foundation, now the Charlie and Tonja Ward Family Foundation, to leave a legacy of giving back by supporting youth character development through sports, arts, education, and wellness to benefit under-served youth and supporting disaster relief initiatives.
No more events.

Learn more through Library resources

Nonfiction

Step into a place of better understanding

Learn about the struggles, achievements, and contributions African American people have made throughout history. Try one of these titles or explore our collection by topic.