Winter Open House

On December 11 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., join us for an evening of books, treats, and cozy community at our Winter Open House!

This fun and festive event will take place at Ohioana Library and the State Library of Ohio at 274 E. First Ave., Columbus, OH, 43201.

Come meet local award-winning illustrator and cartoonist Joe Sutphin! His stunning work Little Christmas Carol, a modern adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol, makes a perfect holiday gift for any book lovers on your shopping list. Books will be available for purchase and signing at the event through Cover to Cover Books for Young Readers.

Additionally, Joe will be part of a special “100 Years of Ohio Authors” program taking place at the Open House! Funded by a generous grant from the Greater Columbus Arts Council, the “100 Years of Ohio Authors” series celebrates a century of Ohio literature. Joe will be in conversation with State Librarian Mandy Knapp to commemorate the year 1945, when historic author-illustrator Lois Lenski published her Newbery Medal–winning book Strawberry Girl. You won’t want to miss this unique discussion exploring the past and present of children’s book illustration. (Please note: this “100 Years” program will take place from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.)

After the program, see treasures from Ohioana’s collection, including original art by Lois Lenski, while enjoying cocoa and snacks. (And don’t forget to get your book purchases signed by Joe!)

DETAILS:

• Thursday, December 11, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
• The program with Joe will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m.
• Ohioana Library and State Library of Ohio, 274 E. First Ave., Columbus, OH
• Free family-friendly event (suggested donation of $10 to help support Ohioana’s collection)
• Books will be available for purchase at the event

MEET OUR GUEST SPEAKERS:

Joe Sutphin is an Eisner Award–winning illustrator and cartoonist of children’s books and graphic novels. His body of work includes the official graphic novelization of Richard Adams’ Watership Down, the re-envisioned editions of Little Pilgrim’s Progress and Little Christmas Carol, Andrew Peterson’s beloved Wingfeather Saga, and many others. Born and raised in central Ohio, Joe’s encounters with the creatures in the fields and woods around his home have shaped his art throughout his life.

Mandy Knapp became State Library Executive Director/State Librarian of Ohio on December 31, 2024. She has over twenty years of diverse library experience that spans public and academic libraries, the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN), and the State Library. She is leading the State Library into a new era of innovation and exceptional service while strengthening relationships and collaboration with state government, all types of libraries, and library organizations at state, regional, and national levels.

Ohioana Library collects, preserves, and celebrates Ohio literature. Learn more about us and our programs at ohioana.org.

Questions? Please email us at ohioana@ohioana.org.