As winter comes to a close, the Wickson Library is gearing up for an exciting array of spring programming. Partnering with Michigan Humanities, the library is set to host engaging events and distribute free books as part of the Great Michigan Read program.
Michigan Humanities, one of the 56 state and territorial humanities councils, has chosen the Frankenmuth Wickson District Library as a partner to distribute free books and provide supporting programming throughout the upcoming months. Patrons can look forward to three separate events taking place throughout the months of March and April as part of the Great Michigan Read program.
On March 13 from 6-7pm, Becky Fulcher of the Smithsonian American Art Museum will present a live, virtual exhibition showcasing the artwork of American Indian culture. The presentation will include a discussion of the influence of geography, tradition, and tribal affiliation, as well as an interactive Q+A. The event will take place on the second floor of the library. Patrons cannot log in remotely and will need to be present at the library for the full presentation. Patrons can register by calling the library or emailing jen@wicksonlibrary.org. At the end of the program, up to thirty free hardcover copies of Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley will be distributed, compliments of the Michigan Humanities Council as part of the Great Michigan Read program.
Every two years a statewide panel of teachers, librarians, community leaders, and book lovers select the Great Michigan Read, an initiative that aims to connect Michiganders by deepening readers’ understanding of our state, our society, and our humanity. The Michigan Humanities’ choice for the 2023-2024 Great Michigan Read is Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley, Michigan storyteller and enrolled member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians.
The second event in the Great Michigan Read program will be a book discussion of Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley, which will take place at the Wickson Library on April 10 from 6-7pm. Firekeeper’s Daughter is Boulley’s debut novel, a spellbinding account of 18-year-old Daunis Fontaine who must learn what it means to be a strong Anishinaabe kwe (Ojibwe woman) for her community, even if it tears apart the only world she’s ever known. Attending the Firekeeper’s Daughter book discussion is a great way to prepare for Angeline Boulley's visit to Pit and Balcony Community Theater in Saginaw on April 13.
The third and final component of the Great Michigan Read program is the sunflower growing contest which will begin on April 1. Patrons can pick up their seeds at the Circulation Desk. You will then grow your seeds over the summer and submit pictures via email to jen@wicksonlibrary.org with your name, phone number, and height measurement of your tallest sunflower when it’s done growing.
Pictures will be shared on Facebook and prizes will be awarded in the following categories: Tallest Sunflower, Most Unique Sunflower, Most Colorful Sunflower, and Prettiest Sunflower. The last day to submit entries will be September 16. Judging will take place from September 17-20, with prizes awarded September 23.
Whether you’re planning to attend the virtual exhibition, join us for the book discussion, or plant a few sunflower seeds in your garden this summer, we hope you’ll join us for this series of Great Michigan Read programming. We look forward to learning, reading, and growing with you throughout the months of March and April, and all summer long.