Quincy Public Library to kick off Big Read on Thursday with book giveaway in Washington Park

QUINCY— The Quincy Public Library is kicking off the Big Read from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Washington Park by giving away 1,500 copies of the Big Read book, “The Bear” by Andrew Krivak, and 500 copies of the Little Read book for younger readers, “I’m With Me” by Ron Kinscherf.

These books are available as part of the library’s participation in the 2024 NEA Big Read, a program of the National Endowment for the Arts that encourages community reading and discussion.

The Big Read kickoff will feature author Andrew Krivak for a book signing and talk. A craft will be available for children in attendance. Big Read partners Bella Ease, Blessing Hospital, Quincy Medical Group, The Art Center and TriState Diversity Coalition will have booths. Refreshments will be provided.

A series of programs themed around the book will take place in Quincy.

• “Our Natural Community in Art” Opening Night and Awards Ceremony – Sept. 20, 7 to 8 p.m. – Local artists will showcase artwork inspired by Quincy’s natural beauty. Awards for the top three pieces will be presented. Enjoy a gallery walk-through.
• Argyle Lake State Park 101 – Sept. 21, 1 to 2 p.m. – Park Naturalist Bridget Hinchee will lead a session on the wildlife and activities at Argyle Lake State Park. Open to teens and adults.
• Healing with Nature and Art – Oct. 3, 6 to 7:30 p.m. – Learn about ecotherapy and the healing power of nature through creative arts with eco therapist Kate Hafflower.
• Little Read Author Talk with Ron Kinscherf – Oct. 5, – 10 to 11 a.m. – Special storytime and book signing with local author Ron Kinscherf and illustrator Holly Brogaard, featuring “I’m With Me.”
• Star Party in the Park – Oct. 9, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. – Explore constellations and stars from “The Bear” in collaboration with the Quincy Park District.
• Survival Challenge for Teens – Oct. 12, 1 to 2:30 p.m. – A fun, educational survival skills challenge for teens.
• Adult Creative Writing Workshop – Oct. 17, 6 to 7:30 p.m. – A nature-inspired creative writing workshop led by a Quincy University professor.
• Nature Art Class with The Budding Artist – Oct. 19, 1 to 3 p.m. – Learn how to incorporate nature into art. This class is for teens and adults. Space is limited, so register early.
• Who Am I? Creative Writing to Build D&D Characters – Oct. 22, 6 to 7:30 p.m. – Teens will learn how to use creative writing to develop unique Dungeons & Dragons characters.

For more information on the NEA Big Read events at Quincy Public Library, visit quincylibrary.org.

NEA Big Read is a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.