This event will take place at Sumner Hall, 206 S. Queen Street, Chestertown, MD.

Join us at Sumner Hall for a community celebration of African American authors!

The National African American Read-In is the nation’s oldest event dedicated to diversity in literature. It was established in 1990 by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English in order to make literacy a significant part of Black History Month.

This interactive, multigenerational program that will celebrate black authors, literacy, reading, and diversity in literature through readings from a wide variety of authors shared by members of the community.  You can come just to listen or plan to step up to the mic and take part as a reader. 

Readings may include short essays, passages from novels, poetry, children's books, or other types of writing. A selection of readings will be available the day of the program, but those interested in reading are encouraged to plan ahead, choose a selection that resonates on a personal level, and practice reading their pieces out loud.  To accommodate as many readers as possible, selections should be no more than 2-4 minutes when read aloud. 

5-5:45pm
Stories for children and the young at heart.  Family-friendly.  All ages welcome.

5:45-6:15pm
A quick break for a light dinner.

6:15-7pm
Readings will be drawn from young adult and adult literature.  Mature themes may be included.

Co-sponsored by Sumner Hall, Washington College Department of Education & Black Studies Program, C.V. Starr Center, Chesapeake Heartland: An African American Humanities Project, and Kent County Public Library.