The Art of Foraging with Alexis Nikole Nelson
Alexis Nikole Nelson is a forager and an outdoor educator using her platforms, TikTok account alexisnikole and Instagram page blackforager, to celebrate all the edible plants hiding in plain sight. She peels back historical layers on African American and Indigenous food traditions that have traditionally been repressed and empowers those living in food deserts with greater self- sufficiency.
Nelson received the James Beard Award for “Best Social Media” 2022, was chosen for the Forbes 30 Under 30 list and as a TikTok Tastemaker, and was honored as part of Fortune Magazine’s Creator 25 in 2021. Nelson gave a TED Talk in 2022 and in 2023 joined the YouTube channel Crash Course to host a 15-episode botany series.
Alexis Nikole Nelson will be joined in conversation with Natalie Evans, a wild edible foods instructor.
ILLINOIS LIBRARIES PRESENT | SPRING 2025
Jan 9, Virtual Visit with Steve Dolinsky, 7 pm
Jan 23, Virtual Visit with Michelle Buteau, 7 pm
Feb 4, Virtual Visit with James McBride,7 pm
Feb 19, Virtual Visit with Amy Tan,7 pm
Mar 4, Virtual Visit with Coralie Adam, 7 pm
Mar 21-23, 9 To 5: The Story of a Movement,
Apr 10, Virtual Visit with Alexis Nikole Nelson,7 pm
May 3, Virtual Visit with Dan Santat, 2 pm
May 15, Virtual Visit with Matthew Desmond, 7 pm
Illinois Libraries Present is funded in part by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a department of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA). Illinois Libraries Present is committed to inclusion and accessibility.
Our beautiful, state-of-the-art Main Library opened on January 6, 2008. You’ll find a wide variety of books, movies, and music, as well as free events for all ages. Looking for tech options? We offer free Wifi, dozens of public computers with internet access, and public meeting rooms.
