Rosemont College proudly highlights a meaningful library initiative that blends tradition, education, and creativity. The Christmas Book Tree in the Gertrude Kistler Memorial Library now honors Black History Month and reflects the college commitment to inclusive learning. This updated display invites students, faculty, and visitors to engage with history in a thoughtful and visual way.
Each year, the Christmas Book Tree serves as a welcoming feature in the library. This year, library staff gave the tradition new purpose. They transformed the tree into a tribute that recognizes African American leaders and changemakers. The result strengthens campus dialogue and supports cultural awareness.
The Story Behind the Christmas Book Tree
Library staff developed the concept through collaboration and shared ideas. Staff members Joan Wilder and Willow Kaminski led a brainstorming session that inspired the transformation. Their vision reshaped the Christmas Book Tree into a Black History Month display that educates and inspires.
In honor of Black History Month, the library staff transformed the Christmas Book Tree into a tribute that honors past and present African American figures. Historian Carter G. Woodson created Black History Month in 1926. He originally named it Negro History Week and chose the timing to align with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln on February 12th and Frederick Douglass on February 14th. The observance expanded from one week to a full month in 1970. Communities in the United States and Canada celebrate it each February. Governments in Ireland and the United Kingdom have also recognized the observance.
Joan Wilder and Willow Kaminski, staff members of the Kistler Library, introduced the idea during a collaborative brainstorming session. Their concept reshaped the Christmas tree into a Black History tree. The display features images and inspirational phrases that reflect each honored figure and their contributions. Staff arranged the images across the tree to mirror traditional holiday decorations. Also, the tree topper displays signs that announce Black History Month using afro centric colors.
The library staff thanks everyone who contributed creative ideas, with special recognition to Linda Romanowski for her valuable input. Staff members will continue celebrating throughout the month in the library. Black History is American History. For Valentine’s Day weekend and for The Love of Black History, staff will add Valentine’s Day decorations to the tree this Friday.
An Invitation to Learn and Reflect
Moreover, the Christmas Book Tree now serves as a space for reflection, learning, and conversation. Students can pause, explore history, and connect with the Rosemont mission through this shared campus experience.
