The African American Children’s Book Project (AACBP) has supported the literary needs of children since 1992. The non-profit was created to promote and preserve children’s literature written by or about African Americans. The AACBP believes A BOOK OPENS UP A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES.

At AACBP, we know that early access to books plays an important role in building lifelong readers. We collaborate with authors, illustrators, publishers, booksellers, educators, consumers, libraries, non-profits and corporations to promote literacy programs across the country.

Our stellar programs include:

• Book fairs
• Book signings
• Workshops
• I Read To See Me program (author/illustrator virtual/in-school visits)
• Educating consumers on trends/resources in youth literature
• Guidance on establishing home libraries
• Advocacy initiatives to promote Black literature around the world

On Saturday February 5 , 2022, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., we will host the 30th Annual African American Children’s Book Fair — one of the oldest and largest single-day events for diverse children’s books in the country. The featured authors and illustrators have produced some of the best books of our generation that celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black Americans in this country.

Parents who attended the book fair as youth now bring their children because they know the power of reading books that reflect their culture and heritage.

During 2020, many parents called the African American Children’s Book Fair “a lifesaver” for their children who turned to home libraries, curated over the years from attending the African American Children’s Book Fair, to get a reprieve from electronics — while still learning. Parents and teachers also reached out to the AACBP for recommendations on age-appropriate books to teach children about race and social justice issues.