Gregory Heights Library history
The first Gregory Heights library opened its doors as a reading room in the 1930s. The current library, renovated in 1998-99, has been serving Northeast Portland in its current location since 1966.
Hula for the Family
Welcome to Rainbow Family Storytime!
Families come in all shapes and sizes, and we are here to help you see yours reflected in books and library services.
African Americans have deep historical connections to the West and their stories are often overlooked. Here is a deep dive into these stories and histories. -- Jem J.
BlackPast (Website)
A wealth of knowledge on Black history in one central location.
Black history timelines, profiles on Black people contributing to Black history, and full-text speeches and other primary documents dating from 1789-2016.
Juneteenth: Food and History - Texas Style
Stones, Bones, and Black-Eyed Peas presents: Juneteenth Food, Texas Style! Join chef and owner of Finer Things Events and Catering, Michelle Guinn, with her daughter, Sable Askew and take a trip back into history. Enjoy a cooking demonstration of Great Uncle Nolan’s all-meat Texas chili, red drink, and homemade vanilla ice cream celebrating freedom and foods cooked and beloved by African American culinary connoisseurs.
This event is first-come, first serve!
Juneteenth: Freedom Wings Craft
This Juneteenth, freedom rings in the air! Come join us at Capitol Hill for Freedom Fridays!
Today, we'll do a fun filled craft, making wings to help you soar through the world. In this craft children will decorate wings while learning about the history of Juneteenth.
Using maps for house and neighborhood history
Find detailed information about your neighborhood, street or even your house from maps.
Juneteenth: Where the Heart Is & Reviving the Black Head Nod
Celebrate Juneteenth at this dual film night at the Rockwood Library! "Where the Heart Is" and "Reviving the Black Head Nod" are documentaries about Black Portland life and history by local photographer, filmmaker, and educator Elijah Hasan. Hasan has emerged as one of the region's most daring and innovative artists. His work knows no boundaries or genres, as he moves between documentary, experimental, and narrative filmmaking.
Join us for this 1 hour screening, and a staff-led discussion.
Suitable for teens and older.
Native American Heritage Month: Native Story Hour
Come sing, listen, learn and celebrate. Join Karen Kitchen (Osage Nation) for this story hour featuring songs and books from Native cultures. Children, families, elders, aunties and uncles — everyone is welcome.
Made possible by The Library Foundation through support from The Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Fund.
The national theme for Black History Month 2023 is Black Resistance. This is a curated list of books for Kids and family and young readers focusing on Black Resistance.
The library’s Black Cultural Library Advocates
"BCLA team members are committed to making and maintaining community connections, creating a safe space, and highlighting Black culture through displays and programming.
NAHM: Tribal Histories of the Willamette Valley
Meet the venerated researcher, scholar, and Oregon State University professor, David G. Lewis. He shares the profound Indigenous story of the Willamette Valley, the impact of colonization by settlers and what the First Nations experienced living on the Grand Ronde reservation. New stories will be revealed that do not appear in other history books. Dr. Lewis is a Native a member of the Grand Ronde tribe. He brings personal perspectives for those encountering these local histories for the first time.
Picture books by black authors and/or illustrators about black children and Kids and family.
Celebrate Latinx Heritage Month from September 15 - October 15! This cultural month honors the diversity of the Latinx community and its many contributions.
Kenton Library history
The Kenton Library building, originally Cyril S. Kenyon Hardware, was constructed in 1951. The library leased the 6,000 sq ft space and began to serve the North Portland neighborhood in March 2010.
Books, music, dvds, and resources highlighting Black Portlanders.
Honoring Black Heritage Through Art
Explore various techniques used by African/Black artists, while incorporating your own style, led by artist Auzurea Caples.
Registration is required.
Honoring Black Heritage Through Art
Explore various techniques used by African/Black artists, while incorporating your own style, led by artist Auzurea Caples.
Registration is required.
Honoring Black Heritage Through Art
Explore various techniques used by African/Black artists, while incorporating your own style, led by artist Auzurea Caples.
Registration is required.
Tween Pride Craft Extravaganza
In this Tween Pride Craft Extravaganza, join us for an afternoon of crafting pride friendship bracelets, origami, buttons, stickers and magnets and flag bookmarks. This event is for LGBTQIA+ Tweens and Tween Allies to come together in friendship and pride.
Teen & Tween Craft Night
Tweens and teens, you’re invited to a special craft night at the library! All supplies provided and it’s free. Materials are limited, so please register to save your spot. For tweens and teens ages 9 and up.
Winter 2024 dates & crafts:
Monday, January 22 - Vision board collages
Tuesday, February 20 - Friendship bracelets
Monday, March 18 - Tiny canvas painting