Brooklyn Public Library Announces “Night in the Library: The Philosophy of Hip Hop”

As a part of their celebration of the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop, Brooklyn Public Library will be holding a free event called “Night in the Library: The Philosophy of Hip Hop.” The event will take place on Saturday, June 17 and will feature performances, keynote addresses, music, discussions, debates, and activities that have been inspired by the genre.

This year’s event was modeled after the “Night of Philosophy and Ideas,” which received 7,000 attendees between 2018 and 2022. The entire Central Library building will be taken over for the night from 7:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m..

We are thrilled to once again welcome New Yorkers to join us for Brooklyn’s most exciting celebration of culture and exchange of ideas. On the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, we’re proud to honor the legacy of the genre and take a deep dive into this multifaceted art form that has transcended music and had a tremendous influence on our cultural fabric on a global scale.

László Jakab Orsós, Brooklyn Public Library’s Vice President of Arts and Culture

“Night in the Library” will include several Roc Nation artists, such as Grammy-nominated rapper Rapsody, Johnny Cocoa, HDBeenDope, and Reuben Vincent. There will be several notable speakers, such as: Honorary Dr. Gloria Carter of the Shawn Carter Foundation; Mitchell S. Jackson, Pulitzer Prize-winning writer; Emerson Sykes of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU); hit rapper Topaz Jones; Naima Cochrane, Founder of Hip-Hop Sermon; and Bill Adler, Def Jams’ first publicist.

The event will be co-curated by the Founder of Really Just Hip-Hop, LeBrandon Smith, as well as Kelly Harrison, and April R. Silver, founder of Akila Worksongs. Additionally co-curating is MACRO, a company that represents the voice and perspectives of Black people and persons of color.

Hip-Hop has outgrown anything imagined, as it continues to evolve culturally and musically. Arguably the most influential artform in the world, it has permeated all parts of society including fashion, media, sports, language and even politics.

LeBrandon Smith, Founder of Really Just Hip-Hop

For more information and to register for the event, visit the Night in the Library’s website.

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