Staff Picks

Fiction

#benitobowl books

Books by authors from and/or with stories set in the beautiful nations of America mentioned by Bad Bunny during the Superbowl Halftime.

Black Authors, American Classics - Non-Fiction

Essential reading. Personal experiences and reflections that stand the test of time.

Black Authors, American Classics - Fiction

Imprinting characters, resonant storylines, undeniable feats of both Black and American literature.

Thanksgiving Reads

This list offers fiction and non-fiction reading recommendations from the Oakland Public Library’s collection as of November 2025.

Non-fiction

The Devil's Music: A Closer Look at the Blues

Inspired by Sinners, the 2026 Academy Award Winning Film for Best Original Screenplay.

2025 Award-Winning Books

Prize-winning fiction and nonfiction published in 2025

African American Heritage Month Non-Fiction Reading List

Explore this curated collection of nonfiction books that honor the rich history, culture, and contributions of African Americans.

Readings on Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. and others

This list was prepared for marking Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Holiday in Oakland, 2026

Non-fiction

Graphic Novels on Monsters & Monstrosity

These horror graphic novels take a look at monsters and monstrosity from different angles.

Superman: Finding Home

Delve deeper into Superman's lore or discover other graphic novels & books that explore themes of identity, belonging, courage, & empathy.

2024 Harvey Award Nominees

The nominees for this year’s Harvey Awards, celebrating the best comics of the prior publishing year. How many can you read by award time?

Within the Kingdom of magic and madness: Studio Ghibli

Enjoy the wonders of Studio Ghibli's animations' other works through music, art books, graphic novels, documentaries, and more.

Staff Favorites

Best of

For teens

Single Button Module

See all lists

Teens

Roses are Red, Violets are Blue

Here are red covers just for you!

Ramadan Kareem رمضان كريم

Enjoy these teen titles about Muslim families and their stories. Happy Ramadan!

YA Books to Read for Arab American Heritage Month!

Bet you didn't know April is Arab American Heritage Month! Check out these books that highlight Arab culture, authors, and history!

For children

Single Button Module

See all lists

Children

Honoring Dr. King

These picture books celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement

Does She Have Magic?

A tribute to phenomenal women and girls in sports. This children's booklist is inspired by Oakland's olympic gold medalist, Alysa Liu.

Palestinian Point of View

Picture books, chapter books, & informational books for children ages 3 to 13 years.

Libby AppLibby App

Find out all about using this exciting resource with your OPL card.
Find out all about using this exciting resource with your OPL card.
Back to Top