Kutztown Community Library will celebrate the 150th birthday of author Laura Ingalls Wilder with a program and refreshments on Feb. 18 at 1 p.m.
Youth Librarian Taylor Kutz said Wilder’s 150th birthday is a big milestone and they wanted to celebrate at the library.
Author and educator Annette Whipple will present the program “Beyond Little House,” during which Whipple will explore how Laura Ingalls Wilder became the world-famous author of the Little House books and Wilder’s adult life.
“She will go beyond The Little House on the Prairie series, go more into her life,” said Kutz. “It’s for all ages, so kids through grandparents are welcome to come.”
Born on Feb. 7, 1867, author Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote about her childhood as an American pioneer in the nine Little House books. Since the first book’s publication in 1932, the Little House books have been published in more than 40 languages and have never been out of print, according to the event release.
“I feel like the Little House on the Prairie books were so big and continue to be so big. I think it’ll be very interesting for the community to come here to hear about her as an author,” said Kutz, noting that all ages will have a good time. “For this to be about a book series that people can relate to and are familiar with is just very exciting.”
Kutz remembers fondly of watching the TV series as a child with her grandmother.
Library Director Janet Yost read the Little House on the Prairie series before bedtime to her children when they were little.
“I liked learning about the lifestyle back in that time period and how strong willed the people were,” said Yost.
She plans to read the series again prior to the celebratory program.
“There’s a strong love for the Little House on the Prairie. It’s been on TV. There’s been movies. I think this is going to bring a variety of people and probably multi-generational, to the library,” said Yost.
Refreshments will be served to celebrate the 150th birthday of Laura Ingalls Wilder. Children and adults are invited to attend the program.
For more information about Annette Whipple exploring the life and legacy of Laura Ingalls Wilder visit www.LittleHouseCompanion.com. Learn more about Annette’s book and programs at www.AnnetteWhipple.com.
