MONTICELLO, NY — It’s finally here—a place where Black history and culture can be celebrated in Sullivan County.

The Hurleyville Performing Arts Centre (HPAC) announced the grand opening of the Black Library on Saturday, August 12, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the library’s new home on 418 Broadway.

The space is dedicated to, as HPAC described it, “creating an inclusive platform for education, dialogue and artistic expression.”

Guests will have the first glimpse of the Black Library’s newly transformed space. They’ll find an extensive collection of books by Black authors, artist studio spaces and a photo studio.

Local artists, including James Ivory, Douglas Shindler, Michael Davis, Malik Bridges, Eli Rivera, Amelia Williams, Devon Mathis, Kenny Corley and more will showcase their incredible work, adding a burst of creativity and inspiration to the event.

HPAC president Janet Carrus called it a “significant milestone… This space will serve as a vital resource for our diverse community, fostering artistic growth, cultural understanding and empowering local voices.”

After the grand opening, the following week is filled with engaging events:

Bagel Fest Open House, Sunday, August 13, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stop by during Bagel Fest for another chance to spend time in the library and explore the collection.

Poetry Slam with Josephine Finn, Monday, August 14, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Be captivated by the power of spoken word.

Game night, Tuesday, August 15, 6:30 p.m. Unwind and engage with fellow community members.

Paint and Sip, Wednesday, August 16, 7 p.m. Tap into your creativity.

Open Mic Night, Thursday, August 17, 7 p.m. Showcase your talent or enjoy the talents of others.

Special surprise event, Friday, August 18. Stay tuned on our Instagram page (@theblacklibraryny) for details.

In the weeks to follow, the Black Library will offer events such as an artist talk featuring program directors Douglas Shindler and Michael Davis on Friday, August 25, and a live performance by local singer Nyasia Chane’l on Saturday, September 23.

“This will be a place where local residents and artists can connect and collaborate,” said Douglas Shindler and Michael Davis, co-program directors of the Black Library.

For more information about the Black Library and the grand opening event, visit www.theblacklibraryny.com or email Douglas Shindler at shindlerdouglas@gmail.com.

HPAC is a nonprofit organization located in Hurleyville and dedicated to celebrating the human spirit through dance, music and film. For more information, visit www.hurleyvilleartscentre.org.