Amy DuBois Barnett book discussion/signing at MLK Library January 31

Get a jump start on Black History Month Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 6-8 pm, as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Branch of the Cleveland Public Library (10601 Euclid Avenue) welcomes renowned author Amy DuBois Barnett for an intimate evening of music and conversation about her debut novel, “If I Ruled the World.” 

The event, moderated by Barnett’s life partner, Cleveland’s own Richard Brooks, serves as the culminating event of a full day of celebration marking the one-year anniversary of the new MLK Branch and will include live jazz and a post-discussion reception and book signing.  PLEASE REGISTER.

Amy DuBois Barnett is an award-winning media executive and author who earned national acclaim as editor-in-chief of Honey, Ebony and Teen People – where she made history as the first Black woman to helm a major mainstream US magazine – and as deputy editor-in-chief of Harper’s Bazaar. She has held senior leadership roles at Paramount, Hearst, Disney, Time Inc. and several independently owned media brands. Barnett has a BA from Brown University and an MFA in creative writing from Columbia University. She resides in Los Angeles. If I Ruled the World is her debut novel. Follow Amy on Instagram, X and TikTok @amyduboisbarnett.

Brooks honed his craft at the historic Karamu Theatre before emerging as one of the city’s most accomplished acting exports. His work ranges from August Wilson’s Fences to starring as ADA Paul Robinette on Law & Order and appearing in acclaimed series like Chicago P.D., Abbott Elementary, and 9-1-1.

The Greater Cleveland Association of Black Journalists (GCLEABJ) serves as one of the event co-sponsors, along with Greater Cleveland Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta, Inc.; Western Reserve (OH) Chapter, The Links, Inc.; Cleveland (OH) Chapter, The Links, Inc.; Kent Area (OH) Chapter, The Links, Inc.; Cleveland Chapter, Girl Friends, Inc.