Tomorrow is our Open Book Family Festival, our celebration of stories in words, music, and art. It’s one of my favorite times of the year, to be honest. While there’s usually something going on here at the library, during the Open Book Festival, the whole building seems to come to life. Storybook Characters are wandering around, music and cheers spill out into the halls of the Lower Level, and everyone is bouncing from room to room to see what’s happening next. Our festival starts at 10:00 a.m. and wraps up at 4:30 p.m. What can you expect when you come to Open Book this year? How convenient of you to ask!
Our keynote speaker is children’s author Jennifer Holm, winner of three Newbery Honor awards. I wasn’t aware that her Babymouse series was effectively the first graphic novel for kids. She’ll talk about writing, books, and fun. If you’re a young reader, a parent, or an adult you’re not going to want to miss this wonderful event.
We’ve had some great musical guests in years past, and this year is no exception. Jim Gill, a long-time Open Book guest, will be here again, and he’ll be doing two shows, both in the Humpreys Multimedia Room in the Lower Level. The first show is at 10:30 a.m. with the next one right at 12:00 p.m. Jim brings the crowd to life with a series of silly songs and even sillier dancing; you’ll find it impossible to sit during his show. We’re also lucky to have Jetta and the Jelly Beans back again this year. Interactive, theatrical rock & roll is the only way you can describe their show, and it’s something you don’t want to miss. You can catch Jetta in the 1st Floor Café at 3:30 p.m.
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giant puppets of Madcap Puppets are returning for a great show, and you can catch them at 11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. in the Colfax Auditorium in the Lower Level. They tour all across the country and have some of the most amazing puppets you’ve ever seen. Have you read Rumplelstiltskin? Maybe. But have you seen the story Rumplestiltskin? Not like this you haven’t. This musical adaptation is a must see, and is appropriate for ages 5 – 12.
Each of our guests is someone you don’t want to miss, but I have to admit that while I’m excited to see everyone at Open Book, I’m even more hyped to see Chris Fascione, Juggling Storyteller. Last year was Chris’ first Open Book, and his unique mash-up of juggling, acting, storytelling and comedy were talked about for weeks after his show. You can catch him in the 1st Floor Café at 11:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
There’s even more going on at Open Book than I can fit here. Andy Schmidt will be on the 2nd Floor Lobby from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., performing everything from show tunes and classics, to a few surprises. Bill Tourtillotte will be in the Humphrey’s Multimedia Room at 2:30 p.m. to help you make your own graphic novel. We’ll have Crafts for Kids on the 3rd Floor in the Storytime Room from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. And if you need a break, pack a lunch and relax in the Family Room, located in the Dickinson Room of the Lower Level. We’ll have water on hand, and you can bring down drinks and snacks from the vending machines on the 1st floor. Barnes and Noble will also be here with books and CDs from our presenters and the Storybook Characters.
If you’re wondering how much it’s going to cost to get into Open Book tomorrow, I should let you know that it’s going to cost absolutely nothing. Open Book is a celebration that we put together for you, our community, and we wouldn’t charge you a single cent to enjoy the fun, music, and magic which is Open Book. We truly hope you come share this wonderful event with us. We’ll see you there!
