Black Art: In the Absence of Light

​Inspired by the work of the late artist and curator David Driskell, this illuminating documentary spotlights the indelible contributions of some of the foremost African American artists in today's contemporary art world, including Theaster Gates, Kerry James Marshall, Faith Ringgold, Amy Sherald, and many more.  Directed by Sam Pollard.

New York Times Review here.

BLACK IS THE COLOR highlights key moments in the history of African-American visual art, from Edmonia Lewis’s 1867 sculpture Forever Free, to the work of contemporary artists such as Whitfield Lovell, Kerry James Marshall, Ellen Gallagher, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Both comprehensive and lively, BLACK IS THE COLOR is a much-needed survey of great work by artists whose contributions were neglected by the mainstream art world for far too long.

Join singer and multi-instrumentalist Mikahely for a family-friendly performance, including original music inspired by Mikahely's upbringing in Madagascar. All ages. No registration needed. Main library.

Stepping into the Studio: A Visit with Illustrator James Ransome 

Award winning children’s book illustrator guides a behind the scenes look into his studio and step-by-step process of creating his illustrations. James shares the tools, including vintage photographs, paints, palettes, friends, and family that are essential to his craft, while revealing the ins and outs, ups and downs of creating artwork for children's books.

About the Artist:

Families are invited to talk, play, read, write and sing while exploring a range of themes and rotating activities designed to promote school readiness, encourage creativity, and healthy development. 

Ages 0-5 with adult

Kids explore science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics activities. Ages 5-11.

Young birders learn through crafts, storytime, and some bird watching around the Library.  Ages 5-11 and their caregivers.

Please pre-register here.

Celebrate Pi Day (3/14) by tasting local pies in the Pi-ckering Room!

All ages. 

No registration required. 

For more details, call either the youth desk at 802-865-7216 or the teen desk at 802-540-2546. 

Tuesday, March 14 is Pi Day!

Do you like math? Do you love dessert? Come celebrate with us! We will have family-friendly pi-themed activities AND plenty of pie to share!

Telling A People's Story Opening Reception : Ekua Holmes Keynote Speaker

The Fletcher Free Library welcomes the exhibit Telling A People's Story: African-American Children's Illustrated Literature.  The Traveling Panel Exhibition, curated by Miami University Art Museum (Oxford, OH) and featuring 12 panels with 120 reproduced illustrations, will be on display in the Main Reading Room of the Main Library  at 235 College Street from April 3-30, 2023.  Please join us for the opening of this exhibit.