March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the women whose contributions have shaped history and continue to inspire future generations. From powerful leaders and courageous activists to brilliant thinkers and creative visionaries, women have made their mark on the world in countless ways. At Germantown Community Library, we celebrate the legacies of these incredible women through a collection of nonfiction books that highlight their achievements, struggles, and transformative influence. Whether you’re interested in influential figures from history or contemporary trailblazers, our library offers a variety of biographies and historical accounts that bring their stories to life.
Why We Celebrate Women’s History Month
Women’s History Month originated as a national celebration in 1981, when Congress passed Pub.L. 97-28, which designated the week of March 8 as Women’s History Week. By 1987, after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project, Congress expanded the celebration to a full month. This annual observance honors the contributions of women in all areas of life: politics, science, the arts, and more. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the progress women have made, while acknowledging the work still to be done.
This March, take the opportunity to explore the lives of extraordinary women through the following themes. Each one shines a light on remarkable women who made history, broke barriers, and paved the way for future generations.
Trailblazing Leaders and Pioneers
These women shattered glass ceilings in their respective fields, from politics and civil rights to space exploration and business. Their courage, vision, and determination changed the course of history.
Suggested Reading:
- The Code Breaker: Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing, and the Future of the Human Race by Walter Isaacson
- My Life on the Road by Gloria Steinem
- A Woman of No Importance: The Untold Story of the American Spy Who Helped Win World War II by Sonia Purnell
- The Woman Who Smashed Codes: A True Story of Love, Spies, and the Unlikely Heroine Who Outwitted America’s Enemies by Jason Fagone
Activists and Change Makers
Many women throughout history fought for justice, equality, and civil rights. Their activism and dedication sparked monumental social and political change, often at great personal cost.
Suggested Reading:
- I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
- We Are Not Here to Be Bystanders: A Memoir of Love and Resistance by Linda Sarsour
- The Woman’s Hour: The Great Fight to Win the Vote by Elaine Weiss
Groundbreaking Scientists and Innovators
These women were not only brilliant scientists, mathematicians, and inventors, but their groundbreaking work also laid the foundation for modern science and technology.
Suggested Reading:
- Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly
- The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
- The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America’s Shining Women by Kate Moore
Creative Visionaries and Cultural Icons
Women have also shaped our world through art, literature, music, and culture. Their creativity, vision, and artistry have left an indelible mark on our culture.
Suggested Reading:
- Bits and Pieces: My Mother, My Brother, and Me by Whoopi Goldberg
- Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina by Misty Copeland
- Louisa May Alcott: The Woman Behind Little Women by Harriet Reiser
- Mary Shelley: Her Life, Her Fiction, Her Monsters by Anne K. Mellor
- Savage Beauty: The Life of Edna St. Vincent Millay by Nancy Milford
Why Read About These Women?
Reading about the lives and legacies of these women can inspire us to continue fighting for equality, social justice, innovation, creativity, and progress in our own lives. Their stories remind us that history is shaped by those who have the courage to make change, and that one person can have a profound impact on the world. By learning more about the struggles and triumphs of these extraordinary women, we honor their legacies and keep their stories alive for future generations.
At Germantown Community Library, we have an extensive collection of biographies and historical accounts that celebrate the lives of these women and others who made history. Visit us this month to discover the incredible women who have shaped our world and continue to inspire new generations of trailblazers.
Erin L., Staff Writer
