Promoting African American History Month: Lifetime Network and ALA

CHICAGO — The Lifetime Network and the American Library Association’s Campaign for America’s Libraries are working together to promote African American History Month by encouraging television viewers to experience the inspirational story of Gabby Douglas.

Lifetime’s "The Gabby Douglas Story," a Lifetime Original movie, premieres at 8 p.m. on Feb. 1.  It tells the remarkable story of how Douglas defied the odds to become a two-time Olympic gold medalist in gymnastics at the age of 16.  Raised primarily by a single mom who has been her biggest motivator and supporter, Gabby was determined to excel in gymnastics despite many challenges along the way. 

But how did she accomplish her dream, becoming the first African American to win individual all-around gold and the first American to win gold in both the individual all-around and team competitions in gymnastics? 

The movie provides that answer by inviting us into her life, a life that provides inspiration to families and kids facing overwhelming odds to achieve their own dreams. What she has been able to accomplish, thanks to her incredible family support and faith, is a road map for all of us, especially our kids. 

An education guide accompanying the movie is available: The Gabby Douglas Story Educational Guide (PDF).

Lifetime Networks®  was a sponsor of the Campaign for America's Libraries recent Connect with your kids @ your library initiative.  Two video public service announcements, developed with a grant from Lifetime aired on the network and featured families engaging in activities such as reading together, going online and researching their family tree at their local libraries.

About the Campaign for America's Libraries
The Campaign for America’s Libraries is ALA’s public awareness campaign that promotes the value of libraries and librarians. Thousands of libraries of all types – across the country and around the globe - use the Campaign’s @ your library® brand. The Campaign is made possible in part by ALA’s Library Champions, corporations and foundations.

About the American Library Association
The American Library Association is the oldest and largest library association in the world, with approximately 57,000 members in academic, public, school, government, and special libraries. The mission of the American Library Association is to provide leadership for the development, promotion and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all.