Events

TD presents African Heritage Month

PG-13 | 2010 I 1h 39min

Tango With Me, directed by Mahmood Ali-Balogun, is a moving family drama nominated for five African Movie Academy Awards in 2011. It tells the story of Lola (Genevieve Nnaji) and Uzo (Joseph Benjamin), who are a perfect, newly married couple with both their lives ahead of them. 

But, when a mistaken identity during the happiest day of their lives leads to the beginning of their worst nightmares, the couple is jolted onto a journey of self-discovery and moral truth. 

Tango with Me is a contemporary story about marriage, forgiveness, values and faith. It is a story that proves that love conquers all.

TD presents African Heritage Month

Come by the Library to create your own amazing African heritage-inspired button maker craft. 

Snacks will be served.

TD presents African Heritage Month

Come, relax, and enjoy a great selection of films and documentaries from the National Film Board of Canada. Every Friday morning throughout the month of February; we will be screening eye-opening and provoking films to celebrate African Heritage Month. You can chat about the movie afterwards while enjoying the treats that our staff members have prepared for you.

Hot and cold beverages and treats will be served after the film screening.

Someone Like Me

Someone Like Me follows the parallel journeys of Drake, a gay asylum seeker from Uganda, and a group of strangers from Vancouver’s queer community who are tasked with supporting his resettlement in Canada. Together, they embark on a year-long quest for personal freedom, revealing how in a world where one must constantly fight for the right to exist, survival itself becomes a victory."

Content Warning: This film contains scenes depicting homophobia and violence, which may be disturbing to some viewers.

In partnership with The National Film Board of Canada 

TD presents African Heritage Month

You are invited to enjoy Storytime at the Library with our special guest Shauntay Grant. 

Shauntay is the author of several books for children, including Africville which won the Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award, and was a finalist for the Governor General's Literacy Awards. During the Storytime, Shauntay will share some of her works, including her newest book My Fade Is Fresh. There will be fun activities, giveaways, snacks, and a Q&A at the end.

All Ages

TD presents African Heritage Month

Vincentian-Canadian author Moashella Shortte and her daughter Siena will join us to read from her children's book Mirror and to share insights into developing a positive self image in yourself and your child.

Moashella was motivated to write Mirror by the desire to teach genuine self-love and self-acceptance to Siena, and to encourage and promote the same for others.

The title Mirror because: “Loving our children comes naturally and easily; teaching them to love themselves is another story.”

In case of weather cancellation, snow date will be February 25, 11 AM.

TD presents African Heritage Month

In partnership with the Youth Art Connection, the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation will be hosting an afternoon celebrating art and its expressions in cultures, and the role it plays in connecting us across communities and boundaries. 

Join us to listen to African Nova Scotian musicians, and explore photography as we connect with each other through some international cooperation and sustainable development goal-themed networking.

This event is organized as part of the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation's International Development Week events.

In partnership with TD, Atlantic Council for International Cooperation, and Youth Art Connection

TD presents African Heritage Month

You could be the first audience to hear a brand new story from Halifax author Jess Marie!

You were made unique and divine! Brown Like Me captures a young girl's experience of trying to fit into the world around her. Realizing that God made her unique on purpose, Talia is able to embrace her differences as a gift and not a burden.

Jess Marie lives in Halifax, Nova Scotia with her husband and two sweet children. She has a heart for social work, music, and creative projects. Jess is passionate about creating children's stories with diverse characters so all children can find themselves in the stories that they read. When not writing, you can find Jess creating! She is inspired to make beautiful things that bring others joy.

All Ages

TD presents African Heritage Month

Since 2020, George Elliott Clarke, the 7th National Poet Laureate (and self-identifying Africadian “exile”) has enlisted Canadian composers to set the poems of Canadian icons including Leonard Cohen, Louise Bernice Halfe, Gwendolyn MacEwen, and Al Moritz to music. 

Joining George for the latest edition of his patented series will be Afua Cooper, Amatoritsero Ede, Sylvia Hamilton, El Jones, and Monica Mutale. Come enjoy hearing the poets read from their works, and listen to how local composer Nevawn Patrick has set their poetry to music performed by vocalist Linda Carvery with pianist Holly Arsenault.

How to participate

You can attend in person, or click to watch the live stream on YouTube at the time of the event.

Tech Requirements: All devices are accepted.

TD presents African Heritage Month

Have you ever wanted to try yoga but are intimidated by yoga studios? Would you like to see more people who look like you practicing yoga? Join certified yoga teacher Marrilee Wilson for an inclusive and accessible yoga class that celebrates every type of body!

There will be some yoga mats for use if you do have one. 

TD presents African Heritage Month

Black authors, Black characters, Black stories, Black joy, Black movies, Black futures ... and so much more!

This month we are highlighting the contributions of Black creators, while welcoming everyone.

We're popping up monthly at Graham Creighton Junior High.

Here, you can borrow books, movies, graphic novels, and comics. You don't have to bring a library card to use the Pop-Up Library. We can look up your card information, or make you a new one.

Everything is free, including snacks and take-home craft kits.

TD presents African Heritage Month

NR | 2019 | 1h 51min

Hero tells the story of Trinidad-born Ulric Cross, who became the RAF's most decorated West Indian airman of WWII. His life took a dramatically different course when he followed the call of history and joined the Pan-African independence movements sweeping the world in the '50s and '60s.

Tickets will be given out 30 minutes before showtime.

TD presents African Heritage Month

The North Preston Community Centre and Preston Township Township Library Office invite you to journey back in time to the Head Start Program, which ran from 1969 to the early 1970s. 

Together, we will return to the past with images of community youth and present-day leaders. This display will also be featured throughout African Heritage Month.

On display will be images from the collection of program leader and resident student, Sue Beaver, whose legacy of Art has influenced the community today.

TD Presents African Heritage Month

NR | 2019 | 1h 51min

Hero tells the story of Trinidad-born Ulric Cross, who became the RAF's most decorated West Indian airman of WWII. His life took a dramatically different course when he followed the call of history and joined the Pan-African independence movements sweeping the world in the '50s and '60s.

Tickets will be given out 30 minutes before showtime.

TD presents African Heritage Month

As we celebrate African Heritage Month, we invite you to join us for an evening of soulful, joyful, and melodious singing with the Nova Scotia Mass Choir. Come shake off the winter blues as you move, groove, and sing to some upbeat, inspirational and joyful music with this award-winning gospel ensemble while celebrating our diversity and rich heritage.

TD presents African Heritage Month

Drop by the Library to create your very own Washi tape nail art, using beautiful African-inspired designs. 

Snacks will be served.

TD presents African Heritage Month

Lift Every Voice is a showcase of amazing talent from our African Nova Scotian music community, produced by the African Nova Scotian Music Association. 

Whether the subject be blues, jazz, rock and roll, folk, gospel, RnB, soul, pop, hip-hop, or rap, there is no way to talk about music without talking about Black music and musicians.

This annual event has a reputation for being good for the soul, energizing for the heart, and a grand-scale celebration of Nova Scotia talent.

In partnership with the African Nova Scotian Music Association

TD presents African Heritage Month

Come, relax, and enjoy a great selection of films and documentaries from the National Film Board of Canada. Every Friday morning throughout the month of February; we will be screening eye-opening and provoking films to celebrate African Heritage Month. You can chat about the movie afterwards while enjoying the treats that our staff members have prepared for you.

Hot and cold beverages and treats will be served after the film screening.

Into the Light

Into the Light features the liberating life stories and powerful words of inspiring Quebec women of African origin who’ve regained control over their lives after suffering from domestic violence. The film transcends prejudice and breaks the silence, pulling back the curtain on a poorly understood, hidden world, while testifying to the tremendous power that comes from overcoming isolation and accepting one’s self. It’s a luminous dive into the quest for personal healing and universal humanity. This is Togo-born director Gentille M. Assih’s third documentary.

Content Warning: This film contains scenes that might be upsetting. Viewer discretion is advised.

In partnership with The National Film Board of Canada 

TD presents African Heritage Month

Anansi the spider is up to his old tricks again. Join the JD Shatford Memorial Puppets as they share this story in celebration of African Heritage Month.

The Puppet Show will be followed by a short 16-minute film.

All Ages

Wontanara, which means “We are united” in the Sisu language of Guinea, is a true definition of the spirit of West African dance culture.

Come join us for an hour of traditional Guinean dance followed by a drumming demonstration and Q & A with Marielle and Mohamed Duranteau.

Mohamed Duranteau is a dancer, choreographer and professional musician from Guinea, West Africa. He and his wife Marielle, a Nova Scotian, co-founded the company in 2007 and have been bringing their passion for sharing the culture to Halifax since 2018.

All ages are welcome to this drop-in program in our lounge area.

TD presents African Heritage Month

Taurey Butler is a phenomenal jazz pianist of the highest calibre. Hailing from East Orange, New Jersey, he has played in numerous cities across the world from Hong Kong to New York, and now makes his home in Montréal. 

He emerges as a fully-formed master of hard-driving swing with a deep feeling for the blues and ballads. It’s easy to get lost in the fire and funk, the sweetness and swing, of Taurey Butler. But you can also follow the light that his music emanates.

In partnership with TD Halifax Jazz Festival

TD presents African Heritage Month

PG-13 | 2022 | 2h 41min

Come watch the highly-anticipated sequel to Black Panther. We'll even have a popcorn bar!

Grades 7-12

Tuesday night is Teen Night at the Library!

Join us each week to learn new skills, meet people, enjoy some snacks, play games, or just relax. Each week we'll be up to something new, and we'll provide everything you need to take part.

TD presents African Heritage Month

The National Film Board of Canada presents this collection of four films to honour African Heritage Month: John Ware Reclaimed, Ice Breakers, True North: Inside the Rise of Toronto Basketball, and Black Soul.

In partnership with the National Film Board of Canada

TD Presents African Heritage Month

14A | 2021 |1h 18min

Based on a true story, I'm Charlie Walker stars Mike Colter as trucking and construction entrepreneur Charlie Walker. In 1971, two oil tankers violently collided off the San Francisco coast, spilling millions of gallons of crude oil and creating an environmental disaster. Against all odds, Charlie was able to secure one of the most lucrative contracts to clean the coastline that threatened much of the San Francisco Bay. 

With only three trucks, an incredible work ethic and a lot of heart, the film recounts the racial discrimination Walker endured as he tries to save the coastline all while fighting institutional racism from the very company that hired him in the first place.

Tickets will be given out 30 minutes before showtime.

TD presents African Heritage Month

As we celebrate African Heritage Month, we invite you to join us for an evening of soulful, joyful, and melodious singing with the Nova Scotia Mass Choir. Come shake off the winter blues as you move, grove and sing to some upbeat, inspirational and joyful music with this award-winning gospel ensemble while celebrating our diversity and rich heritage.

TD Presents African Heritage Month

14A | 2021 |1h 18min

Based on a true story, I'm Charlie Walker stars Mike Colter as trucking and construction entrepreneur Charlie Walker. In 1971, two oil tankers violently collided off the San Francisco coast, spilling millions of gallons of crude oil and creating an environmental disaster. Against all odds, Charlie was able to secure one of the most lucrative contracts to clean the coastline that threatened much of the San Francisco Bay. 

With only three trucks, an incredible work ethic and a lot of heart, the film recounts the racial discrimination Walker endured as he tries to save the coastline all while fighting institutional racism from the very company that hired him in the first place.

Tickets will be given out 30 minutes before showtime.

TD presents African Heritage Month

Lift Every Voice is a showcase of amazing talent from our African Nova Scotian music community, produced by the African Nova Scotian Music Association. 

Whether the subject be blues, jazz, rock and roll, folk, gospel, RnB, soul, pop, hip-hop, or rap, there is no way to talk about music without talking about Black music and musicians.

This annual event has a reputation for being good for the soul, energizing for the heart, and a grand-scale celebration of Nova Scotia talent.

In partnership with the African Nova Scotian Music Association

TD presents African Heritage Month

Join us for an evening of fun and celebrating culture! Enjoy refreshments and socialize with community while playing family games and African Heritage-themed Bingo. 

Feel free to bring your favourite games or enjoy one of the games provided. There will be lots of prizes, food from the Opus Cafe, and fun for everyone.

All ages

In partnership with Akoma and United for Literacy

TD presents African Heritage Month

Come, relax, and enjoy a great selection of films and documentaries from the National Film Board of Canada. Every Friday morning throughout the month of February; we will be screening eye-opening and provoking films to celebrate African Heritage Month. You can chat about the movie afterwards while enjoying the treats that our staff members have prepared for you.

Hot and cold beverages and treats will be served after the film screening.

John Ware Reclaimed

John Ware Reclaimed follows filmmaker Cheryl Foggo on her quest to re-examine the mythology surrounding John Ware, the Black cowboy who settled in Alberta, Canada, before the turn of the 20th century. Foggo’s research uncovers who this iconic figure might have been, and what his legacy means in terms of anti-Black racism, both past and present.

Content Warning: This film contains explicit language. Viewer discretion is advised.

In partnership with The National Film Board of Canada 

  

A humorous and ironic folk tale from the Maasai of East Africa in which only the frog (a most unlikely hero) is courageous enough to take on a bully. Fun for the whole family.

All Ages

TD presents African Heritage Month

Rated 14A I 2022 I 1h 33min

Recently widowed Dr. Nate Daniels (Idris Elba) and his two teenage daughters travel to a South African game reserve managed by Martin Battles, an old family friend and wildlife biologist. However, what begins as a journey of healing soon turns into a fearsome fight for survival when a lion, a survivor of bloodthirsty poachers, begins stalking them. 

This thriller action movie will keep you on the edge of your seat!

TD presents African Heritage Month

Discover the delicious flavours of African heritage cuisine! Come by the Library to learn how to make incredible African and Afro-Caribbean dishes.

TD presents African Heritage Month

Join us as we celebrate and explore the intercultural and generational connections of Black hair in Nova Scotia. We will celebrate the achievements of our local hair innovators with a Black beauty culture hair show, the Black Beauty Culture Awards and the graduation of the very first Black Beauty Culture hair innovators. There will also be a look-and-learn and Q&A session.

Everyone is invited. We will end our celebration with door prizes and refreshments.

TD presents African Heritage Month

Get ready to cook up a delicious and healthy meal with us! Join community cook Ariana Desmond from North Preston, as she leads us on video through the process of making a comforting classic: Beef and Barley Stew. 

With step-by-step instructions and expert tips, you'll be able to recreate this hearty and flavorful dish in your own kitchen. So come grab your ingredients and let's get cooking!

This event is held in the Lou Duggan Creative Studio, a place to Learn, Discover, Create, and Share.

In partnership with Ariana Desmond

This bread is a triple threat: delicious, easy, and inexpensive! Plus it’s local to the Preston Township. Renise will talk you through the steps while you follow along with your own loaf. At the end of the night, you’ll get to take your loaf home to bake it. Don’t worry, we’ll prebake a bunch of loaves so that you can still taste the bread during the program!

Tuesday night is Teen Night at the Library!

Join us each week to learn new skills, meet people, enjoy some snacks, play games, or just relax. Each week we'll be up to something new, and we'll provide everything you need to take part.

Grades 7-12

TD presents African Heritage Month

Halifax journalist Evelyn C. White will take you on an exploration of the artistry and intellectual evolution of two remarkable authors.

Toni Morrison (1931-2019) - A Nobel Laureate in Literature, Toni Morrison was widely heralded for guiding by example a generation of Black women writers to eschew “the white gaze” in their work. Interestingly, Morrison completed her 1955 master’s thesis on authors William Faulkner and Virginia Woolf. 

bell hooks (1952-2021) - In 1983, Black activist/author bell hooks was among the first scholars to complete a doctoral dissertation on the early writing of Toni Morrison.

TD presents African Heritage Month

Vincentian-Canadian author Moashella Shortte and her daughter Siena will join us to read from her children's book Mirror and to share insights into developing a positive self image in yourself and your child.

Moashella was motivated to write Mirror by the desire to teach genuine self-love and self-acceptance to Siena, and to encourage and promote the same for others. 

The title Mirror because: “Loving our children comes naturally and easily; teaching them to love themselves is another story.”

TD presents African Heritage Month

NR | 2019 I 15min

You're invited to a screening of this short documentary, and encouraged to stay for a discussion following it.

Josh Crooks is a promising teen hockey star. But in a sport where Black players like him are chronically underrepresented. Ice Breakers reveals the buried history of a pioneering Black hockey league in Atlantic Canada, as Crooks discovers that his unshakable passion is tied to a rich and remarkable heritage.

In partnership with The National Film Board of Canada

TD presents African Heritage Month

Vincentian-Canadian author Moashella Shortte and her daughter Siena will join us to read from her children's book Mirror and to share insights into developing a positive self-image in yourself and your child.

Moashella was motivated to write Mirror by the desire to teach genuine self-love and self-acceptance to Siena, and to encourage and promote the same for others. 

The title Mirror because: “Loving our children comes naturally and easily; teaching them to love themselves is another story.”

TD presents African Heritage Month

Vincentian-Canadian author Moashella Shortte and her daughter Siena will join us to read from her children's book Mirror and to share insights into developing a positive self-image in yourself and your child.

Moashella was motivated to write Mirror by the desire to teach genuine self-love and self-acceptance to Siena, and to encourage and promote the same for others. 

The title Mirror because: “Loving our children comes naturally and easily; teaching them to love themselves is another story.”

Free tickets will be given out 30 minutes before the start time. Group registration is required.

TD presents African Heritage Month

In honour of African Heritage Month, please join us for a fun evening and learn about options for DIY hair care - to keep your Black hair beautiful.