Written by Mackenzie Manley, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library
The United States will celebrate its 250-year anniversary on July 4, and the Library is celebrating all year long with events, exhibits, and more.
From scavenger hunts to presentations on local history to book clubs, the Library has hosted over 100 events tied to the commemorative celebration so far this year. And there is more to come!
Monthly 250 Years of American History Exhibits
The Downtown Main Library has monthly historical exhibits in the connector between its North and South buildings.
Currently, the exhibit explores the tradition of college homecomings. Mark your calendar for the rest of the year, which will explore the Hamilton County Fair in August; the Cincinnati Reds in September; local winemaking in October; and the Disabled American Veterans in November.
Upcoming Events
If you haven’t celebrated with the Library yet, or want to keep the festivities going, there’s still plenty of time to dive into history. The Library has over 60 events planned for the next few months. Here are a few ways to celebrate in July.
6-7:30 p.m., Monday, July 6
Celebrate July’s 250 Years of American History theme, picnics and homecomings. The Clifton Branch Library will host a community picnic on their front lawn, complete with games and music. Pack a picnic dinner and bring your own chairs or blanket for an evening of fun.
2-3:30 p.m., Monday, July 13
Enjoy a classic American pastime at the Harrison Branch Library! Drive your cardboard cars into the Library for a showing of Dog-Man. Materials will be available to decorate your cardboard car.
250 Years of Wacky American History! Trivia Night
6-8 p.m., Friday, July 17
All ages can test their knowledge of wacky, weird American History at the Green Township Library’s themed trivia night. Snacks and prizes are available. Registration is required.
Amusement Parks in Greater Cincinnati
1-2 p.m., Saturday, July 18
Presented in partnership with the Cincinnati Museum Center, come to the Madeira Branch Library to learn about the amusement parks and venues that have existed in the Greater Cincinnati region, including Ohio River beaches, trolly parks, the zoo, Coney Island, Kings Island, and more.
Historical Girl Doll “Camp”: Kit Kittredge
3-4:30 p.m., Monday July 20-Friday, July 24
Every day, from July 20 to July 24, the Westwood Branch Library will host a summer camp-themed event around Kit Kittredge. After reading a chapter of Meet Kit by Valerie Tripp, do a craft that Kit herself would have done while learning about The Great Depression.
Multiple times, Wednesday, July 22
Register for a time slot at the Mariemont Branch Library’s National Treasure-themed escape room in which the Declaration of Independence was stolen just before a party celebrating America’s 250th birthday. Recommended for ages 9 and up.
For more information, visit chpl.org/america-250-ohio.
Mackenzie Manley is currently reading “Room to Dream” by David Lynch and Kristine McKenna.
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