“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” ~ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
This week, we honor the 96th birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a towering figure in the fight for civil rights and social justice, born on January 15, 1929. Dr. King achieved remarkable milestones during his brief yet impactful life, including at least fifty honorary degrees from institutions across the nation. In 1964, he became the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize for his leadership in nonviolent resistance to racial injustice. King’s dedication to human rights earned him the American Liberties Medallion from the American Jewish Committee in 1965, and in 1967, he traveled to the UK to receive an honorary degree from Newcastle University—the first African American to receive this distinction.
Dr. King’s influence continues. In 1971, King awarded a Grammy for Best Spoken Word Recording for “Why I Oppose the War in Vietnam,” and in 1977, President Jimmy Carter posthumously bestowed upon him the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Your library offers a wealth of resources to explore King’s life, his work, and the broader struggle for social justice. From books and audiobooks to eBooks and documentaries, you’ll find inspiration and tools to learn more about his enduring vision for equality. What do you want to do with your life?
As Dr. King said, “The time is always right to do what is right.” Visit your library today—your curiosity and free library card are all you need to begin.