Upcoming Programs & Events
Special Mental Health Discussion- Talking Teen Stress
Apr 27,
Tue, 6:30pm- 8pm
Many teens have experienced an increased level of stress over the past year. Join them, along with licensed counselors, psychologists, and social workers as they discuss feelings of worry, frustration, and depression. Ask questions or just listen in. Please register to receive the Zoom link.
Ages: 13+
Price: Free Community Event
Registration Begins: Mar 1
Location: Virtual - Zoom Meeting & Facebook Live
Novi Mental Health Alliance Monthly Meeting
May 03,
Mon, 6-7pm
The Novi Mental Health Alliance holds working monthly meetings to discuss and develop outreach programs, as well as quarterly educational evening events, where experts in the social, emotional, and learning (SEL) field present. Programs are held throughout the school year and summer months at various times and locations. It is hoped that through offering these community resources that coping strategies can be gained to help build healthier families, classrooms, and communities.
Ages: 18+
Price: Free Community Event
Registration Begins: Mar 1
Location: Virtual – Zoom Meeting
Pride & Joy: Parents & Guardians of LGBTQ+ Kids
May 05,
Wed, 7pm-8:30pm
Offering educational resources, advocacy opportunities, and mutual support as we strive to love our children well. Details about how to connect will be emailed the day before the program to registered attendees.
Ages: 18+
Price: Free Community Event
Registration Begins: Apr 4
Location: Virtual – Zoom Meeting
Japanese Virtual Conversation Group
May 05,
Wed, 6:30-8pm
“こんにちは” Do you think your Japanese conversation skills are getting rusty? Let’s practice and learn Japanese together! *Must register with valid email to receive Zoom link.* Link will be sent the day before the event.
Ages: 16+
Price: Free Community Event
Registration Begins: Mar 1
Registration Ends: 9am the Day Before Event
Location: Virtual - Zoom Meeting
German Virtual Conversation Group
May 10,
Mon, 7-8:30pm
Sprechen Sie deutsch? Beginners to advanced speakers are welcome to join the German language conversation group. *Must register with valid email to receive Zoom link.* Link will be sent the day of the event.
Ages: 16+
Price: Free Community Event
Registration Begins: Mar 1
Registration Ends: 9am the Day Before Event
Location: Virtual – Zoom Meeting
Spanish Virtual Conversation Group
May 17,
Mon, 7-8:30pm
Hola amigos! All levels of Spanish speakers from ZERO to NATIVE are welcome to join us! *Must register with valid email to receive Zoom link.* Link will be sent the day of the event.
Ages: 16+
Price: Free Community Event
Registration Begins: Mar 1
Registration Ends: 9am the Day Before Event
Location: Virtual – Zoom Meeting
Korean Virtual Conversation Group
Apr 21,
May 19,
Wed, 10:30am-12pm
Do you need to learn or practice your Korean conversation skills? Reading, vocabulary, grammar, and basic conversation will be covered! *Must register with valid email to receive Zoom link.* Link will be sent the day before the event.
Ages: 16+
Price: Free Community Event
Registration Begins: Mar 1
Registration Ends: 9am the Day Before Event
Location: Virtual – Zoom Meeting
French Virtual Conversation Group
Apr 26,
May 24,
Mon, 7-8:30pm
Bonjour! Adults & Teens interested in practicing the French language are invited to meet-up once a month. *Must register with valid email to receive Zoom link.* Link will be sent the day of the event.
Ages: 16+
Price: Free Community Event
Registration Begins: Mar 1
Registration Ends: 9am the Day Before Event
Location: Virtual – Zoom Meeting
Watch
Celebrating Women's History Month - March 18, 2021
Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Special guests Kathy Crawford and the American Association of University Women (AAUW) talk about the significance of this month while highlighting remarkable women in history
Mental Health Check-In - March 8, 2021
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Special guests: Dr. Crystal Jackson, Board Certified Psychologist, and Heather Brown, LPC, ATR-BC
Young Black Doctors: Exploring and Empowering Our Community - February 25, 2021
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Join seven doctors and support their mission as they share their stories about becoming medical doctors! Special guests: Herman Gray, M.D., Carl Tabb II, M.D., Randall McPherson, M.D., Gini Ikwuezunma, M.D., Drs. Jeremy and Jermaine Hogstrom and Chinemelu Donald Okoye, M.D.
See How We Celebrate...Chinese New Year - February 14, 2021
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Special guests: the Michigan New Century Chinese School, the Association of Chinese Americans and the Chinese Bible Church
Black History Month Spotlight Series
February 11, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Special Guests: Mrs. Nicole Carter and Dr. Alexander Ofili, Novi Principals
February 18, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Special Guest: Gail Perry-Mason, author, Money Matters for Youth Founder and Senior Director of a Financial Firm
February 22, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Special Guests: Michael D. Johnson & Michael J. Johnson, Father/Son Certified Financial Planner/Professional & business owners
MLK Tribute Video - January 18, 2021
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Thanks to the City of Novi, organizations, students, and the community who helped make this video possible. Thanks to Aaron Parrott for the background music.
MLK Virtual UNITY Celebration - January 18, 2021
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Watch to enjoy music, hear guest speakers, and watch presentations on this day of unity and service!
Fraternity & Sorority Read Story Time
December 1, 2020 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
December 8, 2020 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
January 5, 2021- Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
January 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
February 2, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
February 9, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
March 2, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
March 11, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
March 17, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
March 22, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Stories were selected by NPL and read by members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and AKA Sorority.
Mental Health Series
The Psychological Impact of Racism - December 10, 2020
Watch on YouTube
Learn the different ways in which we carry the burden of racism (anger, depression, anxiety), understand the traumatic effect of racism, gain awareness of internalized racism and learn the A-B-C’s and 1-2-3’s of promoting peace inside and out.
How Are the Kids? - December 17, 2020
Watch on Facebook |
Watch on YouTube
Learn to recognize and address the emotional and mental well-being of our pre-teens and teens during the pandemic. Stress-Isolation-Distracted-Sadness-Quiet. Special guests: Dr. Crystal Jackson, licensed psychologist & Heather Brown, licensed professional counselor.
Supporting Frontline Workers & Educators - January 7, 2021
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Watch on YouTube
Learn coping mechanisms and emotional well-being during the pandemic and more. Special guests: Dr. Crystal Jackson, licensed psychologist & Selena Schmidt, nurse practitioner.
Man Stress - You're Not Alone - January 14, 2021
Watch on Facebook |
Watch on YouTube
Learn how to recognize stress, admit that you have it, what triggers it, and how to get support. Special guests: Dr. Crystal Jackson, licensed psychologist, and Joe Lilly, Licensed Master Social Worker.
African American Ethnic Cultural Discussion Group
December 3, 2020 - Watch on Facebook |
Watch on YouTube
Join us virtually as we Inform. Inspire. Include. through cultural conversations on customs, common language, holidays and events, inspirations, literature, small talk, history, and resources, designed for specific ethnic cultures.
Novi Public Library International & ELL YouTube
Spring English Language Learning |
Watch on YouTube
Vocabulary, read aloud and practice questions about spring for English Language Learners.
Internet Safety English Language Learning |
Watch on YouTube
Vocabulary, read aloud and practice questions about internet safety for English Language Learners.
English Conversation Group: COVID-19 |
Watch on YouTube
Vocabulary, read aloud and practice questions about the Coronavirus for English Language Learners.
English Conversation Group: Banking |
Watch on YouTube
Vocabulary, read aloud and practice questions about banking for English Language Learners.
A Community Listening Session - Aired October 27, 2020
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Watch on YouTube
The Novi Public Library invited the community to share their thoughts and experiences regarding how NPL can improve race relation practices with the Black community. To view the Zoom chat,
please click here. Download the Break the Silence - Conversations You Can Initiate handout
here.
Community Listening Session Reflection - Aired November 9, 2020
Watch on Facebook |
Watch on YouTube
The DEI Committee listened deeply to the comments and questions from the Community Listening Session and invited the community to a reflection and discussion to help the Novi Public Library enact needed change to fully support the Black Community. To view the Zoom chat,
please click here.
Talking Racism Series
Combating Racial Injustices - Aired July 7, 2020
Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Special Guests:
- Hon. Alisha Bell: Chair Wayne County Commission
- Dr. Ken L. Harris, Ph. D (Washington D.C.): President/CEO National Business League
Racism Is Not A “Black People” Issue - Aired July 14, 2020
Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Special Guests:
- Hon. Cynthia D. Stephens: Judge of the Michigan Court of Appeal, First District
- Mr. Reginald Turner: President Elect, American Bar Association
Teens/Young Adults Talk Racism Views & Experiences - Aired July 16, 2020
Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Special Guests:
- Area teens & young adults
Talking With Your Kids About Racism - Aired July 22, 2020
Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Special Guests:
- Dr. Rose Moten: Psychologist of BLOOM Transformation Center
- Dr. Katherine G. Gothard: PSY.D
- Mrs. Paula Henry: PAASN President
Why Take A Knee? - Aired July 30, 2020
Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Special Guests:
- Hon. Mary Sheffield: Detroit City Council President Pro Tem
- Mr. Mark A. Douglas: Avis Ford, Inc. President
- Mr. James Tate, Detroit City Council
Listen
Beyond Books Podcast
Do you know what #OwnVoices means? In this episode, Information Services Librarian Katie talks about the movement and how NPL is bringing diverse stories and voices to the forefront! You'll also learn about about some iCube equipment, upcoming language conversation groups, and get another great book recommendation.
How to handle statues in Detroit - Listen Here
Historian & Educator Jamon Jordan joins us for a discussion about how to handle historical statues and whether they should be removed. For more information about Jamon, please visit blackscrollnetwork.weebly.com.
International Programs and Resources - Listen Here
We meet Shannon, our International Services Librarian, and hear about her programs, conversation groups, collections and resources. We also learn about Pronunciator and have another special guest with a book recommendation for fans of graphic novels!
Click here to visit the Beyond Books Podcast page to learn about where you can listen to the podcast and to send the team feedback!
In the Library
National Women's History Month
The Novi Public Library has materials on display for all ages to celebrate Women's History Month. Visit the Business Resource Center to check our books about women in business.
Celebrate Holi
Visit the 2nd floor information desk to learn about Holi, a popular Hindu festival, also known as the "festival of spring," the "festival of colors," and the "festival of love." The festival signifies the triumph of good over evil.
Hinamatsuri
Visit the 2nd floor information desk to view a Hinamatsuri display! Hinamatsuri is a special day in Japanese culture, also called Girl's Day or Doll's Day. The primary aspect of Hinamatsuri is the display of seated male and female dolls on a red carpet, but are usually described as the Emperor and Empress of Japan. These dolls may be as simple as pictures or folded paper, or intricately carved three-dimensional dolls. Stop by to read more!
The youth department will be highlighting current events and many of the holidays and observances celebrated in our diverse community.
Click here to browse some of the materials on our Libraries are for Everyone page.
Safe Space
NPL is a supportive and affirming environment for the LGBTQ+ community and we want you to know that you are included and welcome at our library! Posters have been hung to show that NPL is a safe space for all.
Click here for additional information about GLSEN.
International Language Resources
Books: NPL has international materials for both youth and adults. This collection features books in Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), French, German, Gujarati, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Marathi, Portuguese (Brazilian), Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, Tamil, and Telugu. These books can be checked out for 3 weeks.
Magazines: NPL currently subscribes to many foreign language magazines and newspapers.
Click here to view a complete list.
Films: NPL offers international films in over 40 languages, including Mandarin, Cantonese, Japanese, Spanish, French, German, Hindi, Korean, etc. NPL also has an Anime collection. Anime is a term used to define a style of animation in Japan that is often characterized by stark colorful graphics depicting vibrant characters in action-filled plots often with fantastic or futuristic themes. It is aimed at children and adults.
Click here for additional International Language Resource information.
KultureCity
The Library has recently partnered with KultureCity; a wonderful organization that makes the nevers possible, by creating sensory accessibility and inclusion for those with invisible disabilities. Click here for more information or stop at any of our service desks to inquire.
Books & Other Materials
Black-Owned Business Resources
The Novi Public Library is dedicated to highlighting Black-owned businesses in the area. By supporting Black-owned companies, you're helping strengthen local Black economies which in turn, strengthens our community! You'll also contribute to the shrinking racial wealth gap, help foster more job creation for Black people, and so much more.
Minority-owned businesses, especially Black-owned businesses, have also been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. There are many ways to find and support Black-owned businesses.
- Click here to view a growing list of local Black-owned businesses in the area. If you would like to submit a business to be added to this list, click here.
- The Michigan Small Business Development Center hosted a Virtual Marketplace to showcase businesses of color in Michigan. You can find the list of featured businesses here.
- The Shop Small Movement has a section of their website dedicated to supporting Black-owned businesses with resources for both businesses and shoppers, including a map of Black-owned businesses, which you can find here (search New York Magazine Black-owned businesses map).
Additional Resources
Community Organizations
Black Lives Matter Novi
Email |
Follow on Facebook
Novi/Northville Racial Awareness, Accountability and Action Group
Email |
Join on Facebook
Novi Parent Mental Health Alliance - Parents in the Novi community
Email
Oakland Schools African American Parent and Child Network
Join on Facebook
PAASN - Parents of African American Students in Novi
Email |
Follow on Facebook
Pride & Joy - Parents & guardians of LGBTQ+ kids in Novi
Email |
Follow on Facebook
National Organizations
Asian/Pacific American Librarians Association (APALA)* - Nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing leadership opportunities through informed dialogue that addresses the needs of Asian/Pacific librarians and those who serve APA communities.
Black Caucus American Library Association (BCALA)* - Serves as an advocate for the development, promotion, and improvement of library services and resources to the nation’s African American community; and provides leadership for the recruitment and professional development of American American librarians.
Gender Spectrum - Works to create gender sensitive and inclusive environments for all children and teens.
GLAAD - Tackles tough issues to shape the narrative and provoke dialogue that leads to cultural change.
GLSEN - Works to ensure that LGBTQ students are able to learn and grow in a school environment free from bullying and harassment.
Human Rights Campaign - Envisions a world where every member of the LGBTQ family has the freedom to live their truth without fear, and with equality under the law.
PFLAG - Builds on a foundation of loving families united with LGBTQ people and allies who support one another, and to educate ourselves and our communities to speak up as advocates until all hearts and minds respect, value and affirm LGBTQ people.
The Trevor Project - Leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning youth.
TransFamily Support Services - Saves lives by shaping a gender affirming and accepting Community.
Trans Youth Equality Foundation - Provides education, advocacy and support for transgender and gender non-conforming children and youth and their families.
*Novi Public Library now holds memberships with this organization.