Calendar of events

Upcoming in 2020 |
Ongoing/Weekly/Monthly |
Previous event |

Dates, locations, and times are subject to change. Some workshops or events may charge a fee. Contact us to submit your event.

Upcoming in 2020

August

August 2, 2020 Graphic Novel Book Club, Lincon, NE, 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. Trade A Tape Comic Center, 145 S 9th Street. Come on down to discuss "Fire Power" by Robert Kirkman and Chris Samnee.
August 4, 2020 Virtual Storytime, Online, 6:15 p.m. Facebook Live.
August 5 - 6, 2020 Omaha Lit Fest, Omaha, NE. Lit Fest programming will take place from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. each day, with a plethora of other events happening before and afterwards. Lit Fest will remain FREE and open to ALL AGES. Check in later for more information about location and author lineups as the dates get closer.
August 6, 2020 Masked Poetry Reading, Kearney, NE, 7:00 p.m. Cottonmill Amphitheater, Cottonmill Park, 2795 Cottonmill Ave. Prairie Art Brothers present "Masked Poetry". This open mic event will feature three central Nebraska-based poets with time for other writers to present 5-10 minutes of material. Admission to this reading is free.
August 22, 2020 Drag Queen Story Hour, Online, 2:00 p.m. Indigo Bridge Books and Cafe Facebook page. Adding a little pizzazz and sparkle to afternoon's favorite pasttime...STORY HOUR! Join this very special story hour presented by your favorite local drag queens.

September

September 2020 Library Card Sign-Up Month
September 6, 2020 National Read a Book Day
September 8, 2020 International Literacy Day
September 17, 2020 Author Event - Theodore Wheeler and Kassandra Montag, Lincoln, NE, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Francie & Finch Bookshop, 130 S. 13th Street. Celebrate the (belated) Lincoln launch of author Theodore Wheeler's new novel In Our Other Lives along with the release of the new paperback edition of Kassandra Montag's celebrated novel After the Flood! Both authors will read from their books with a Q&A and booksigning to follow.
September 22, 2020 "Robber's Cave" Presentation/Book Signing, Fremont, NE, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Keene Memorial Library, 1030 N Broad St.
September 22, 2020 Makmaking: The Poetic Art of Kwame Dawes, Lincoln, NE, 8:00 a.m. Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center, UNL Campus, 313 N 13th St. A celebration of the award-winning poetry and collaborations of Kwame Dawes, Chancellor's Professor of English and Glenna Luschei Editor of Prairie Schooner at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
September 27 - October 3, 2020 Banned Books Week, Nationwide. Banned Books Week is an annual event celebrating the freedom to read. It spotlights current and historical attempts to censor books in libraries and schools. It brings together an entire book community - librarians, booksellers, publishers, journalists, teachers, and readers of all types - in shared support of the freed to seek and to express ideas, even those some consider unorthodox or unpopular.

October

October 17, 2020 2020 Celebration of Nebraska Books, Lincoln, NE. Nebraska History Museum, 131 Centennial Mall N. The celebration, free and open to the public, will feature presentations of the Nebraska Center for the Book's Nebraska Book Awards, Mildred Bennett Award, and Jane Geske Award.

November

November 9 - 15, 2020 Children's Book Week, The annual celebration of books for young people and the joy of reading. It is the longest-running national literacy initiative in the country. Events are held nationwide at schools, libraries, bookstores, homes - wherever young readers and books connect! The 2020 Children's Book Week will take place with 2 dedicated weeks of celebration, one week in May and one in November.

December

Previous Events

January

January 4, 2020 World Braille Day
January 11, 2020 Words on the Winter Wind, Ralston, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Baright Public Library, 5555 S. 77th St. A group of writers is ringing in the new year by sharing their creativity with the Ralston community, and anyone else hwo wants to join. This event is free and gives poets a chance to read their work aloud. Words on the Winter Wind will feature seven workshop poets from the metro area who will share 10-15 minutes of their writing.
January 14, 2020 Matt Mason at the Broken Bow Library, Broken Bow, NE, 6:30 p.m. Broken Bow Library, 626 S D St.
January 16, 2020 Brown Bag: Nebraska's Suffragist Journalists: Clara Bewick Colby and Rheta Childe Dorr, Lincoln, NE, 12:00 - 1 p.m. Nebraska History Museum, 131 Centennial Mall North. Join to learn about two Nebraskans who became the nation's most important suffragist journalists. The presenter, Dr. Eileen Wirth, is the author of a book on Nebraska's women journalists, From Society Page to Front Page.
January 18, 2020 Author Event - Trish Eklund, Lincoln, NE, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Indigo Bridge Books and Cafe, 701 P St #102. Trish Eklund, author of Abandoned Nebraska will be in ths store talking about her work.
January 21, 2020 Front Porch Reading Series - Jessica Hollander, Kearney, NE, 7:00 p.m. G.W. Frank Museum of History and Culture, University Dr. Kearney author, Jessica Hollander, will share her stories as part of the Front Porch Reading Series by Prairie Art Brothers. Admission to this event is free.
January 22, 2020 Library Shelfie Day
January 22, 2020 Robber's Cave Presentation & Book Signing, Schuyler, NE, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. Schuyler Public Library, 108 E. 18th Street. Nebraska Book Award Winner Joel Green will share the story of Robber's Cave and sign some books.
January 24, 2020 Celebrating Nebraska's Black Leaders, Lincoln, NE, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Nebraska History Museum, 131 Centennial Mall North. We know Martin Luther King Jr. was a national leader, but he was also an experienced community leader working with community leaders across the nation. Who were Nebraska's black community leaders? Don't miss the chance to hear original poetry and spoken word inspired by Lincoln's Black leaders, written and performed by Lincoln High School students, celebrate these leaders by adding your impressions to an original, community art project by ArtReach, and see a re-enactment of the "Descendants of DeWitty" who built their community literally from the ground up.
January 24, 2020 Read Aloud Storytime, Lincoln, NE, 11:00 - 11:30 a.m. Gateway Mall, 6100 O Street. Join for a half-hour of storytime for guests ages 5 and under. Story time will take place within the Liberty First Credit Union play space located just outside Dillard's. This event is partnered with Read Aloud Lincoln.
January 25, 2020 Working an Archive: Rescuing Jews and their Past, Omaha, NE, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. UNO Criss Library, 6001 Dodge St. How do you take 32,000 documents and figure out the story told within? Join Rebecca Erbelding, archivist and historian, and Ron Coleman, Director of the Archives Branch at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, talk about conducting historical research.
January 26, 2020 Book Signing, Omaha, NE, 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. The Bookworm Omaha, 2501 S. 90th St, Ste 111. Come meet Harvest the Vote author Jane Kleeb as she reads from her new book about rural voters, signs copies, and takes questions.
January 26, 2020 Author Event - George Ayoub, Grand Island, NE, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Grand Island Public Library, 1124 W. Second St. George Ayoub, former Grand Island Independent editor and columnist and author of Confluence: John Gottshalk's Life of Duty, Service, and the Business of News will deliver a book talk about the process of writing a biography.
January 26, 2020 Sunday at the Museum: Andy Pollack, Bancroft, NE, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Neihardt Center, 306 W Elm St. Join as Andy Pollack talks about The Snowbound Anthology: A Story of the Blizzard of 1949 and Other Nebraska Stories. This program is free and open to the public with an open house following the presentation with snacks and drinks.
January 27, 2020 Writer's Night: Open Mic, Lincoln, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Crescent Moon, 140 N 8th St. Poetry & prose open mic. Sign up starts at 7:00 p.m. Tentatively scheduled until 9:00 p.m.

February

February 2020 National Library Lover's Month
February 1, 2020 Book Launch - "Harvest the Vote" by Jane Kleeb, Lincoln, NE, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Francie & Finch Bookshop, 130 S 13th Street. From Democratic Party rising star Jane Kleeb, an urgent and stirring road map showing how the Democratic Party can, and should, engage rural America. Kleeb persuasively argues that the hottest issues of the day can be solved hand in hand with rural people. Written with a fiery voice and commonsense solutions, Harvest the Vote is both a call to action and a much-needed balm for a highly divided nation. Books will be available for purchase and Jane will sign them.
February 2, 2020 Children's Day Festival, Norfolk, NE. Sunset Plaza Mall, 1700 Market Ln. Read Aloud Norfolk presents the Children's Day Festival: a day full of activities and reading. The event is all about fun and reading and is for the whole family.
February 2, 2020 John H. Ames Reading Program Lincoln, NE, 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. Bennett Martin Public Library - Hertiage Room, 136 S 14th St. Dirk Chatelain will discuss his book 24th & Glory: The Intersection of Civil Rights and Omaha's Greatest Generation of Athletes. His book examines how so many nationally known ahtletes came from on segregated neighborhood of North Omaha.
February 4, 2020 Speaker Event - Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, Omaha, NE, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Thompson Center at UNO, 6705 Dodge St. Dr. Ibram X. Kendi will discuss his book How to be an Antiracist. He is one of America's foremost historians and leading antiracist voices. He is a New York Times bestselling author and the Founding Director of The Antiracist Research & Policy Center at American University in Washington, DC. This event is free and open to the public
February 5, 2020 World Read Aloud Day, World Read Aloud Day is an opportunity for people all around the globe to celebrate the joy of reading aloud, and advocate for literacy as a fundamental human right that belongs to everyone.
February 5, 2020 Lunch at the Library - Great Plains Literature, Lincoln, NE, 12:10 - 1:00 p.m. Heritage Room of Nebraska Authors, 136 S. 14th Street. "Great Plains Literature" is an exploration of literature relfecting on life on the Great Plains of the United States and Canada. It includes topics ranging from the cultural destruction of the first people who lived here through declining rural communities and growing urban populations. This event features Linda Ray Pratt, professor emeritus of English at UNL.
February 5, 2020 Virtual Reading with author Kelly DiPucchio, Schuyler, NE, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Schuyler Public Library, 108 E. 18th Street. Kelly DiPucchio, author of the Golden Sower Award winner Gaston, will be reading her book for World Read Aloud Day! She will join on a video call at 4:00 p.m. Come to the library for this unique, one-of-a-kind author event. Sponsored by the Three Rivers Library System.
February 5, 2020 Lit Pub Quiz with Claire Jimenez, Omaha, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Pageturners Lounge, 5004 Dodge St. Teams of 1-4 are invited to compete for this month's title. Prizes will be provided by partners the Bookworm and Lola's. Special guest is Claire Jimenez! A PhD student at UNL, Clair will read from her new book Staten Island: Stories. Jimenez shines a spotlight on the imagined lives of the islanders.
February 6, 2020 Harry Potter Book Night 2020, Schuyler, NE, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. Schuyler Public Library, 108 E. 18th Street. Join to celebrate the most magical book sereies ever!
February 6 - 9, 2020 Write on the Prairie, Walton, NE. Prairie Creek Inn, 2400 S 148th St. February in Nebraska offers writers an opportunity to settle in to introspection and contemplation in ways few other months can match. Larksong Writers' Place offers its first Write on the Prairie Retreat. Former Nebraska State Poet Twyla Hansen and Novelist Karen Getter Shoemaker will lead generative writing workshops each morning and offer writing invitations to take you into your own projects, or help you find new ones.
February 7, 2020 Read Aloud Storytime, Lincoln, NE, 11:00 - 11:30 a.m. Gateway Mall, 6100 O Street. Join for a half-hour of storytime for guests ages 5 and under. Story time will take place within the Liberty First Credit Union play space located just outside Dillard's. This event is partnered with Read Aloud Lincoln.
February 7, 2020 Book Launch - "The Day We Went to the Park", Lincoln, NE, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Francie & Finch Bookshop, 130 S 13th Street. The Day We Went to the Park, a rhyming picture book by Christine Manno and Lincoln paper artist Linda Stephen, will be published in February by Handersen Publishing. The illustrations feature Holmes Lake Park crafted from more than 1,000 orgiami paper sculptures.
February 8, 2020 Nebraska Warrior Writers, Lincoln, NE, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Lincoln VA Clinic, Pioneer Room, 600 South 70 Street. This free writing program is aimed towards veterans and active dutyl military personnel. Participants need only be interested in writing in any form - they do not need to have any previous writing experience to benefit from the workshop.
February 10, 2020 Writers' Night: Open Mic, Lincoln, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Crescent Moon, 140 N 8th St. Poetry & prose open mic. Sign up starts at 7:00 p.m. Tentatively scheduled until 9:00 p.m.
February 12, 2020 Galentine's Meeting, Papillion, NE, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Wine Cellar 510, 7474 Towne Center Pkwy, Ste 105. Join for snacks, wine & book discussion.
February 15, 2020 Nebraska Warrior Writers, Omaha, NE, 10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Willa Cather Branch Library, 1905 S 44th St. This free writing program is aimed towards veterans and active dutyl military personnel. Participants need only be interested in writing in any form - they do not need to have any previous writing experience to benefit from the workshop.
February 15, 2020 Book Talk - John Stevens Berry, Lincoln, NE, 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. Francie & Finch Bookshop, 130 S. 13th Street. John Stevens Berry, author of The Twelfth Vicitm will present his insights into the true story of how a fourteen-year-old Nebraska girl was denied justice in a murder case that stunned the nation.
February 15, 2020 Book Signing - Kim Stokely, Papillion, NE, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Chocolaterie Stam, 7474 Towne Center Pkwy, Ste 123. There's nothing better than a new novel and a box of chocolates to indulge while reading. Award-winning author, Kim Stokely is back and will be signing copies of her latest book The Light Unleashed along with her other books.
February 16, 2020 Writer's Night: Revenge of the Lonely Hearts, Lincoln, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. The Happy Raven, 122 N 11th Street. Come listen to local writers share their short works of fiction, poetry, ore creative non-fiction-- or share your own!
February 17, 2020 Writers' Night: Open Mic, Lincoln, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Crescent Moon, 140 N 8th St. Poetry & prose open mic. Sign up at 7:00 p.m. Tentatively scheduled until 9:00 p.m.
February 17, 2020 Writing Workshop, Lincoln, NE, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Sylvan Learning, 3900 Yankee Hill Rd Ste 113. A fun approach for your child to build writing skills! Come and practice writing skills with a chance to win prizes. Grades 3-5.
Febrary 19 - 21, 2020 Nebraska State Literacy Conference 2020, Kearney, NE. Younes Center, 416 W Talmage Rd. This annual conference hosts incredible authors, speakers, and vendors who teach and remind us why literacy matters at all levels. Registration is required.
February 20, 2020 African American Read-In, Lincoln, NE, 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. Loren Corey Eiseley Library, 1530 Superior Street. Readers and performers will explore African American history and the rich and significant contributions of African Americans in literature and the arts.
February 20, 2020 Author Meet and Greet, Gretna, NE, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Resurrectio Evangelical Lutheran Church, 153 S McKenna Ave. Do you love the Nebraska Cornhuskers? Author Debra White will be talking about herself and her book The Spirit of Nebraska: A History of Husker Game Day and Traditions - the Tunnel Walk, Mascots, Cheer, and More with vintage memorabilia on display. This event is free to attend. No registration required.
February 21, 2020 Read Aloud Storytime, Lincoln, NE, 11:00 - 11:30 a.m. Gateway Mall, 6100 O Street. Join for a half-hour of storytime for guests ages 5 and under. Story time will take place within the Liberty First Credit Union play space located just outside Dillard's. This event is partnered with Read Aloud Lincoln.
February 21, 2020 Author Event - Tim McDermott, Lincoln, NE, 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Franice & Finch Bookshop, 130 S. 13th Street. Meet Tim McDermott, author of Deadly Propensity. From start to finish, Deadly Propensity, with its colorful characters, will take you for an exciting and entertaining ride.
February 22, 2020 Miss. Robin Reed-Poindexter Book Signing, Omaha, NE, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Great Plains Black History Museum, 2221 N 24 St (Jewell Building). Born and raised in Omaha, Miss Reed-Poindexter is the author of a children's book series, Middle Maddy, which she penned with encouragement from her granddaughter. She is also the author of the adult book Now I See Clearly.
February 22, 2020 Nebraska Warrior Writers, Lincoln, NE, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Lincoln VA Clinic, Pioneer Room, 600 South 70 Street. This free writing program is aimed towards veterans and active dutyl military personnel. Participants need only be interested in writing in any form - they do not need to have any previous writing experience to benefit from the workshop.
February 23, 2020 "Never Mind" Story Time & Book Signing, Lincoln, NE, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Loren Corey Eiseley Library, 1530 Superior Street. Join to celebrate the publishing of Never Mind, first book in the Duke the Deaf Dog ASL Series!
February 24, 2020 Writers' Night: Open Mic, Lincoln, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Crescent Moon, 140 N 8th St. Poetry & prose open mic. Sign up at 7:00 p.m. Tentatively scheduled until 9:00 p.m.
February 24, 2020 "The Spirit of Nebraska" - Author Debra White, Schuyler, NE, 6:00 - 7:45 p.m. Schuyler Public Library, 108 E. 18th Street. There is no place like Nebraska! Author Debra White will give an in-depth look at Husker game day traditions with her book The Spirit of Nebraska. This event is free and open to the public.
February 27, 2020 Children's Stories, Animal Stories with Traditional Lakota Stories, Omaha, NE, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Willa Cather Elementary School, 3030 S. 139th St. Speaker: Jerome Kills Small.
February 27, 2020 Community Book Club: "The Woman's Hour: The Great Fight to Win the Vote", Lincoln, NE, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Nebraska History Museum, 131 Centennial Mall North. Join the Women's Foundation of Lincoln and Lancaster County, Lincoln City Libraries and History Nebraska for a community discussion of the page-turning book The Woman's Hour by Elaine Weiss. This event is free but space is limited and registration is required.
February 29, 2020 Book Release Party, Omaha, NE, 7:00 - 10:00 p.m. OutrSpaces, 1258 S. 13th Street. Help celebrate the launch of Theodore Wheeler's new novel In Our Other Lives. From Kings of Broken Things author comes an exploration of love lost, the failure of humanism, and the revelations of how deeply the US government spies on the personal lives of its citizens. Ted will read briefly from his book, answer questions about how the book came to be, and sign copies.
February 29, 2020 Nebraska Warrior Writers, Omaha, NE, 10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Willa Cather Branch Library, 1905 S 44th St. This free writing program is aimed towards veterans and active dutyl military personnel. Participants need only be interested in writing in any form - they do not need to have any previous writing experience to benefit from the workshop.

March

March 1, 2020 Author Event - Ted Wheeler and Kassandra Montag, Omaha, NE, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. The Book Worm Omaha, 2501 S. 90th St, Ste 111. Theodore Wheeler will read from his new novel In Our Other Lives and will be joined in conversation by Kassandra Montag, author of the acclaimed novel After the Flood. A book signing and Q&A will follow.
March 2, 2020 Read Across America Day
March 2, 2020 Seussathon, Bellevue, NE, 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Bellevue Public Library, 1003 Lincoln Rd. Celebrate the 17th Annual Seussathon! Grab a snack in the Brown & Black Cafe, enjoy a quiet family reading time--Dr. Seuss style!--on comfy sofas and chairs. Be sure to enter to win a fantastic prize!
March 2, 2020 Writers' Night: Open Mic, Lincoln, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Crescent Moon, 140 N 8th St. Poetry & prose open mic. Sign up at 7:00 p.m. Tentatively scheduled until 9:00 p.m.
March 4, 2020 Lit Pub Quiz with Ted Wheeler, Omaha, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Pageturners Lounge, 5004 Dodge St. Pageturners Lit Pub Quiz features 20 questions in four categories in the traditional format, plus a final question when accrued points can be wagered. Teams of 1-4 are invited to compete for this months' titl. Prizes will be provided by partners the Bookworm and Lola's! This month we celebrate the publication of In Our Other Lives, Ted Wheeler's new novel.
March 4, 2020 Lunch at the Library - Great Plains Weather, Lincoln, NE, 12:10 - 1:00 p.m. Heritage Room of Nebraska Authors, 136 S. 14th Street. Ken Dewey explains what makes the climate of the Great Plains unique in his captivating presentation of the historical climatology of extreme weather events. Climate continues to have significant economic and cultural impact in the Great Plains.
March 4, 2020 Front Porch Reading Series - Jim Reese, Kearney, NE, 7:00 p.m. G.W. Frank Museum of History and Culture, University Dr. Author Jim Reese will read from "Bone Chalk". Kearney-based writer Tyler Jacobs will open the reading. Admission to the event is free.
March 5, 2020 Becoming a Real Musician with Author Dr. Robert H. Woody, Lincoln, NE, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. Bennett Martin Public Library, 136 N 14th Street. UNL professor Dr. Robert H. Woody will discuss his newest book, Becoming a Real Musician: Inspiration and Guidance for Teachers and Parents of Musical Kids. This discussion will inspire both parents and music teachers with a treasure trove of concepts intended to create supportive, encouraging environments for young musicians.
March 7, 2020 "A Bad Man in a Better Place: Jesse James in Nebraska", Fort Calhoun, NE, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Fort Atkinson State Historical Park. Come hear the story of A Bad Man in a Better Place: Jesse James in Nebraska, presented by Humanities Nebraska speaker Jeff Barnes. This presentation includes rarely seen images and seldom-heard stories of James, with the opportunity for questions afterward.
March 8, 2020 Sunday at the Museum: Joel Green, Bancroft, NE, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Neihardt Center, 306 W Elm St. Author Joel Green will talk about Robber's Cave, the winner of the 2019 Nebraska Book Award for Non-Fiction. This program is free and open to the public with an open house following the presentation with snacks and drinks.
March 11, 2020 Reynolds Visiting Writers Series - Leslie Pietrzyk, Kearney, NE, 7:00 p.m. University of Nebraska at Kearney, 2504 9th Ave. The University of Nebraska at Kearney's Reynolds Visiting Writers Series presents novelist Leslie Pietrzyk who will share her work.
March 13, 2020 Find Out More: Tips for Reading Scholarly Articles, Omaha, NE, 12:15 - 12:45 p.m. UNO Criss Library, 6001 Dodge St. Learn how to get the most out of scholarly articles from this library workshop.
March 14, 2020 Nebraska Warrior Writers, Omaha, NE, 10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Willa Cather Branch Library, 1905 S 44th St. This free writing program is aimed towards veterans and active dutyl military personnel. Participants need only be interested in writing in any form - they do not need to have any previous writing experience to benefit from the workshop.
March 14, 2020 Tales from Hans Christian Anderson, Wood River, NE, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Wood River High School, 13800 W. Wood River Rd. Speaker: Lisa Kramme.
March 14, 2020 Nebraska Warrior Writers, Lincoln, NE, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Lincoln VA Clinic, Pioneer Room, 600 South 70 Street. This free writing program is aimed towards veterans and active dutyl military personnel. Participants need only be interested in writing in any form - they do not need to have any previous writing experience to benefit from the workshop.
March 17, 2020 Jerry Barlow Concert, Kearney, NE, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Kearney Public Library, 2020 1st Avenue. Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with acclaimed Celtic guitarist and storyteller, Jerry Barlow. His repertoire of haunting airs, lively jigs, and spirited reels will take you away from Nebraska to the forests of Ireland, the castles of Scotland, and beyond.
March 18, 2020 Agate Fossil Beds Writing Festival, Harrison, NE, 9:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Agate Fossil Beds National Monument Visitor Center, 301 River Rd. Excited about National Parks and transformative writing ideas? Join the Nebraska Writing Project Teacher Consultants and State Poet Matt Mason for a FREE writing festival open to student writers grades 6 through 12. Student and teacher writers will attend several place-based writing centered on creative writing, poetry, historical fiction, and argument writing. This festival has limited openings. Reservations can be made by contacting Ranger Alvis Mar at (308)665-4110 or alvis_mar@nps.gov. Deadline for reserving your spot is March 10.
March 21, 2020 World Poetry Day
March 21, 2020 Nebraska Warrior Writers, Lincoln, NE, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Lincoln VA Clinic, Pioneer Room, 600 South 70 Street. This free writing program is aimed towards veterans and active dutyl military personnel. Participants need only be interested in writing in any form - they do not need to have any previous writing experience to benefit from the workshop.
March 21, 2020 Plum Creek Children's Literacy Festival 4th Annual Breakfast and Books Seward, NE, 8:00 a.m. Concordia University - Janzow Campus Center, 800 N. Columbia Ave. Wake up, and come celebrate literacy! Esteemed author/illustrators Chris Raschka and Mark Teague are joining for the fourth annual Plum Creek's Literacy Festival Breakfast and Books program! Begin the morning by shopping for books by Mark and Chris; then enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet, followed by engaging and dynamic keynotes; and round out the day with a few special give-aways, time for autographing, and an optional keynote exploring art and illustration. Visit https://www.cune.edu/plum-creek-childrens-literacy-festival for more information!
March 21, 2020 Author Event - Theodore Wheeler, Lincoln, NE, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Francie & Finch Bookshop, 130 S. 13th Street. Celebrate the Lincoln launch of author Theodore Wheeler's new novel In Our Other Lives! Wheeler will read from the book and then be joined in conversation by novelist Ilana Masad. Booksigning, snacks, and Q&A to follow.
March 23, 2020 Memoir Writing Workshop, Kearney, NE, 12:00 - 1:30 p.m. Kearney Public Library, 2020 1st Avenue. Convert your memories to memoir with Aspen Black and Kerry Grombacher. These talented singers, poets, and songwriters will lead this workshop for apsiring writers. There is a $10 fee with lunch being included.
March 23, 2020 Writer's Night: Open Mic, Lincoln, NE, 8:00 - 10:00 p.m. Crescent Moon, 140 N. 8th Street. Poetry and prose open mic. Sign up starts at 7:00 p.m.
March 28, 2020 Nebraska Warrior Writers, Omaha, NE, 10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Willa Cather Branch Library, 1905 S 44th St. This free writing program is aimed towards veterans and active dutyl military personnel. Participants need only be interested in writing in any form - they do not need to have any previous writing experience to benefit from the workshop.

April

April 2020 National Poetry Month
April 2020 School Library Month, School librarians are encouraged to host activities to help their school and local community celebrate the essential role that strong school library programs play in transforming learning.
April 1, 2020 Lunch at the Library - ALA Notable Books of 2019, Lincoln, NE, 12:10 - 1:00 p.m. Heritage Room of Nebraska Authors, 136 S. 14th Street. Join Lincoln City Libraries Director, Pat Leach, for her annual talk about the ALA Notable Books of 2019. The ALA Notable lists are announced each year by various divisions of the American Library Association.
April 4, 2020 Nebraska's Landmark Buildings, Elmwood, NE, 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. Elmwood Christian Church, 311 N. 5th St. Author Jeff Barnes will be speaking.
April 4, 2020 Nebraska Warrior Writers, Lincoln, NE, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Lincoln VA Clinic, Pioneer Room, 600 South 70 Street. This free writing program is aimed towards veterans and active dutyl military personnel. Participants need only be interested in writing in any form - they do not need to have any previous writing experience to benefit from the workshop.
April 9, 2020 A Visit with Nebraska State Poet Matt Mason, Shelby, NE, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Shelby Rising City Public School, 650 N. Walnut St.
April 16 - 18, 2020 Nebraska Writers Guild Annual Conference and Writing Retreat, Omaha, NE. Comfort Inn & Suites, 7007 Grover Street.
April 18, 2020 Nebraska Warrior Writers, Lincoln, NE, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Lincoln VA Clinic, Pioneer Room, 600 South 70 Street. This free writing program is aimed towards veterans and active dutyl military personnel. Participants need only be interested in writing in any form - they do not need to have any previous writing experience to benefit from the workshop.
April 18, 2020 Nebraska Warrior Writers, Omaha, NE, 10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Willa Cather Branch Library, 1905 S 44th St. This free writing program is aimed towards veterans and active dutyl military personnel. Participants need only be interested in writing in any form - they do not need to have any previous writing experience to benefit from the workshop.
April 19 - 25, 2020 National Library Week, Head to your public, school, or academic library during National Library Week to see what's new and take part in the celebration. Libraries across the country are participating.
April 20, 2020 Writing Workshop, Kearney, NE, 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. Kearney Public Library, 2020 1st Avenue. Nebraska author Jonis Agee will lead a writing workshop for apsiring writers and fans of her work. This is a great opportunity to spend time with a storyteller and discuss the art of writing. Lunch is included. $10 fee.
April 20, 2020 Book Club Festival: Jonis Agee, Kearney, NE, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Kearney Public Library, 2020 1st Avenue. Nebraska author Jonis Agee will be the featured speaker at this year's Book Club Festival. She is the author of 12 books, including 5 collections of short fiction, 6 novels, and a book of poetry. Registration for this event is required.
April 21, 2020 Author Event, Omaha, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Baxter Arena, 2425 S 67th St. Global best-selling author David Baldacci is coming to Omaha as a featured speaker for the fifth anniversary of the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) Marion Marsh Brown Writers Lecture Series. His visit marks the official start of his 2020 book tour.
April 22, 2020 5th Annual Spring Luncheon, Omaha, NE, 12:00 - 3:00 p.m. Champions Run Omaha, 13800 Eagle Run Dr. This year's luncheon will feature award-winning author, Dr. Lydia Kang. She has authored multiple books including: The Impossible Girl, A Beautiful Poison, and Toxic. In addition, she is widely published in medical journals for her poetry and non-fiction writing.
April 23, 2020 World Book Day
April 27, 2020 National Tell a Story Day

May

May 2, 2020 Nebraska Warrior Writers, Lincoln, NE, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Lincoln VA Clinic, Pioneer Room, 600 South 70 Street. This free writing program is aimed towards veterans and active dutyl military personnel. Participants need only be interested in writing in any form - they do not need to have any previous writing experience to benefit from the workshop.
May 2, 2020 Nebraska Warrior Writers, Omaha, NE, 10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Willa Cather Branch Library, 1905 S 44th St. This free writing program is aimed towards veterans and active dutyl military personnel. Participants need only be interested in writing in any form - they do not need to have any previous writing experience to benefit from the workshop.
May 3, 2020 Sunday at the Museum: Nancy B. Johnson, Bancroft, NE, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Neihardt Center, 306 W Elm St. Nancy B. Johnson will talk about Women and Madness on the Plains. This program is free and open to the public with an open house following the presentation with snacks and drinks.
May 4 - 10, 2020 Children's Book Week, The annual celebration of books for young people and the joy of reading. It is the longest-running national literacy initiative in the country. Events are held nationwide at schools, libraries, bookstores, homes - wherever young readers and books connect! The 2020 Children's Book Week will take place with 2 dedicated weeks of celebration, one week in May and one in November.
May 4, 2020 An Evening with David Sedaris, Lincoln, NE, 7:30 p.m. Kimball Recital Hall, 1113 R Street. Join best-selling author and NPR contributor, David Sedaris for an evening featuring all-new stories, an audience Q&A, and a book signing.
May 23, 2020 Drag Queen Story Hour, Online, 2:00 p.m. Indigo Bridge Books and Cafe Facebook page. Adding a little pizzazz and sparkle to afternoon's favorite pasttime...STORY HOUR! Join this very special story hour presented by your favorite local drag queens.
May 23, 2020 Live Stream Story Time - Author and Illustrator Karissa Bettendorf, Online, 2:00 p.m. Francie and Finch Facebook page. Karissa Bettendorf will be reading Everybody's Baby and Dreams. See the charming watercolor illustrations by this Lincoln artist.
May 28, 2020 Meet the Author: Beth Friesen, Online, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Zoom. Join this virtual Meet the Author event with local author Beth Friesen. A Zoom link will be sent privately, upon RSVP before May 27.
May 30, 2020 Live Stream Story Time - Gina Bittner and Kelly Kingsley, Online, 2:00 p.m. Francie and Finch Facebook page. How Rudy the Rooster Got His Voice by Nebraska authors Gina Bittner and Kelly Kingsley.
May 31, 2020 Fahrenheit 451: "System Restore" Online. 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Zoom. Special St. Weceslaus Pentecost event. Participants are not required to read the novel prior to the session. Space is limited, so RSVP early! Your reservation confirmation email will include information regarding Zoom. This event is free.

June

June 2020 Audiobook Month
June 1, 2020 Seward Reads! 2020, Seward, NE, 9:00 a.m. Seward Reads! is a community-wide reading event. Adults and kids of all ages are encouraged to read the same book during June and to engage in activities that spread kindness, connection, and fun throughout Seward.
June 2, 2020 Virtual Storytime, Online, 6:15 - 6:45 p.m. Facebook Live.
June 3, 2020 Online Storytime, Online, 8:00 a.m. Morton-James Public Library Facebook page.
June 4 - 6, 2020 65th Annual Willa Cather Spring Conference, Online. "Un/Tethered: Cather on the Cusp of the 1920s".
June 4, 2020 Virtual Pop In Storytime - Volcanoes, Online, 4:00 - 4:30 p.m. Facebook Live. Pop into the museum storytime with Lincoln City Libraries. Through stories, songs, and movement we'll learn more about volcanoes! Everyone is invited to participate, however the activities are planned for ages 3-5.
June 4, 2020 Storytime on Facebook Live, Online, 10:30 a.m. Facebook Live. It's Dinosaur storytime! Join for some stomping and romping!
June 6, 2020 Book Presentation and Signing, Columbus, NE, 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. Columbus Public Library, 2504 14th Street. Presentation of Robber's Cave: Truths, Legends, Recollections with a book signing to follow.
June 8, 2020 Re-Start!! Choose Your Own Adventure Read Aloud Book Club Online, 4:30 p.m. Zoom. Adventurers (up to age 18) are invited to this interactive reading experience. Email library.info@fremontne.gov for the link and password.
June 9, 2020 Book Discssion Group, Schuyler, NE, 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. Schuyler Public Library, 108 E 18th Street. The Water Dancer by Ta-Neheisi Coates.
June 11, 2020 Modern Fiction Bookclub - Online, Online, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Zoom. Do you want to talk about Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jessamyn Ward? Join the Zoom for the book club!
June 15, 2020 Virtual Nerd Book Club, Online, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Zoom.
June 16, 2020 Poetry Reading and Q&A Session with Matt Mason, Online, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Facebook Live. Join for a live, virtual poetry reading and Q&A session with State Poet Matt Mason. His readings are lively, fun, and a great way for anyone to engage with the arts. The program will happen live on Facebook with the opportunity to comment live with questions.
June 17, 2020 Imagine Your Story, Online, 8:00 a.m. morton-jamespubliclibrary.com/ Let's see what we can imagine at this Story Time! Online picture book Story Times are geared toward children ages 2-6 and include reading 3 picture books and learning simple Sign Language.
June 22, 2020 Dynamic Duo Storytime, Online, 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. www.cityoflavista.org/ Do you want to add a twist to your evening storytime? Watch the Dynamic Duo Storytellers work together and share their love of reading. Paired reading is a great way to help a child relax, learn new vocabulary, build fluency, and make connections.
June 24, 2020 "White Fragility" Discussion on Zoom, Online. Join this open and frank discussion of the ideas presented in DiAngelo's book.
June 25, 2020 Book Discussion, Beatrice, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Beatrice Public Library, 100 N 16th St. Slogum House by Mari Sandoz.
June 25, 2020 June Book Club/Ladies Supper Club, Papillion, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Olli & Hobbes, 310 E Gold Coast Rd. The Home for Unwanted Girls by Joanna Goodman.
June 26, 2020 Fairy Tales - Unhinged, Online, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. These are not your Mother Goose's fairy tales! Watch what happens when your favorite stories go wonk-a-doole. Full-size sets and puppets bring these silly sagas to life.
June 27, 2020 Drag Queen Story Hour, Online, 2:00 p.m. Indigo Bridge Books and Cafe Facebook page. Adding a little pizzazz and sparkle to afternoon's favorite pasttime...STORY HOUR! Join this very special story hour presented by your favorite local drag queens.
June 28, 2020 Youth Book Club, Waverly, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Waverly Community Library, 11120 N 141st St. Reading The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley and Sidetracked by Diana Harmon Asher. Meet in the parking lot of the library. Bring your chairs!
June 29, 2020 ALL Writer's Workshop, Lincoln, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Storm Cellar, 3233 1/2 S 13th St. Calling all writer: Rappers, poets, novelists, comedians, short story writers, blogger, singer/songwriters... lyricists of all types of music! All levels of writers are welcome.

July

July 1, 2020 Writing Workshop with State Poet Matt Mason, Online. Nebraska State Poet Matt Mason will run a writing workshop via Zoom for the Omaha Public Library. More information to come.
July 1, 2020 Hooray for Independence Day Online Story Time, Online, 8:00 a.m. Happy Birthday America! Let's celebrate with Story Time!
July 5, 2020 Graphic Novel Book Club: "Uzumaki" by Junji Ito, Lincoln, NE, 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. Trade A Tape Comic Center, 145 S 9th Street.
July 6 - 8, 2020 Story Catcher Summer Writing Workhop & Festival, Chadron, NE. Chadron State Park, 15951 Gold Rush Byway. Against the breathtaking landscape of the Pine Ridge Region of Northwest Nebraska, our writers-in-residence will lead sessions focused on crafting and improving our writing, providing participants a chance to create new work to then share and receive personalized feedback during the retreat. Participants will be able to spend the nights and days together as part of the retreat. This inspirational setting fosters a wonderful writing community focused on exploring the terrain of our lives.
July 6, 2020 ALL Writer's Workshop, Lincoln, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Storm Cellar, 3233 1/2 S 13th St. Calling all writer: Rappers, poets, novelists, comedians, short story writers, blogger, singer/songwriters... lyricists of all types of music! All levels of writers are welcome.
July 7, 2020 "Just Mercy" Discussion, Online, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. A weekly Zoom book discussion of Just Mercy, Bryan Stevenson's memoir, begins Tuesday July 7 and will continue for 8 weeks.
July 8, 2020 A Mixed Bag of Legends for Online Story Time, Online, 8:00 a.m. You never know what you'll pull out of this bag full of legends. Let's find out at Story Time!
July 10, 2020 Fabulous Fairy Tales, Online, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Experience the magic of one amazing storyteller, a few simple props, and some beloved stories. Don't miss local storyteller Diane Cox weaving mesmerizing tales.
July 13, 2020 Family Book Club, Online, 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Read a book as a family, and then get together with other families to discuss it. This event will take place on Zoom. Participants will receive a link in their email.
July 13, 2020 ALL Writer's Workshop, Lincoln, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Storm Cellar, 3233 1/2 S 13th St. Calling all writer: Rappers, poets, novelists, comedians, short story writers, blogger, singer/songwriters... lyricists of all types of music! All levels of writers are welcome.
July 14, 2020 Book Discussion Group, Schuyler, NE, 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. Schuyler Public Library, 108 E. 18th Street. The Stranger by Harlan Coben.
July 20, 2020 ALL Writer's Workshop, Lincoln, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Storm Cellar, 3233 1/2 S 13th St. Calling all writer: Rappers, poets, novelists, comedians, short story writers, blogger, singer/songwriters... lyricists of all types of music! All levels of writers are welcome.
July 21, 2020 Mermaid Harmony Online Program, Online, 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Story time with a mermaid? Absolutely! This program will be available in video format on the Morton-James Public Library website. Program is free and open for anyone to view.
July 22, 2020 Be Kind Online Story Time, Online, 8:00 a.m. Being kind never goes out of style. Let's read all about it!
July 25, 2020 Drag Queen Story Hour, Online, 2:00 p.m. Indigo Bridge Books and Cafe Facebook page. Adding a little pizzazz and sparkle to afternoon's favorite pasttime...STORY HOUR! Join this very special story hour presented by your favorite local drag queens.
July 27, 2020 ALL Writer's Workshop, Lincoln, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Storm Cellar, 3233 1/2 S 13th St. Calling all writer: Rappers, poets, novelists, comedians, short story writers, blogger, singer/songwriters... lyricists of all types of music! All levels of writers are welcome.
July 29, 2020 Not So Scary Monster Story Time, Online, 8:00 a.m. Are all monsters scary? Not so! Find out in this Story Time!
July 30, 2020 AdReads Virtual Book Club & Happy Hour, Online, 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Zoom. AdReads from AAF Omaha is a virtual book club and happy hour. Talk about books about advertising via Zoom.
July 30, 2020 Book Club/Ladies Supper Club, Omaha, NE, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Inner Rail Food Hall, 1911 S 67th St. Searching for Sylvie Lee by Jean Kwok.

Ongoing

Lincoln

Book Club, First Wednesday of the month. 7 - 8 p.m. Jakes' Cigars, 101 N. 14th Street, Ste 1.
Drop in Journal Club, Join us every third Wednesday. 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Francie & Finch Bookshop, 130 S. 13th Street. Catherine Griesen is a local book artist who makes beautiful handmade journals. She will be showcasing her talents and creating pieces of art for you.
Graphic Novel Book Club, Second and Fourth Wednesdays of the month. 7 p.m. Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe, 701 P Street, Suite 102.
Lincoln City Library Book Talks and Discussion Groups, All of the groups are free and open to the public. Just drop in at one of the gatherings or call the branch location if you need more information.
One Book One Lincoln, Various activities. Inviting Lincoln to read and discuss the same book. Become a fan on Facebook.
Open Mic Night, Wednesday nights. 7 - 9 p.m. Meadowlark Coffee and Espresso, 1624 South Street. Come share your talent with the cafe!
Pop in Storytime, First Thursday of every month. 4 - 4:30 p.m. Morrill Hall, 645 N. 14th Street. Through stories, songs, and movement, come learn more about the natural world. Everyone is invited to participate, however stories and activities are planned for children ages 3-5.
Raven & Finch Book Club, Group meets every third Tuesday. 6 p.m. The Happy Raven, 122 N. 11th Street. Want to meet interesting people? Want to read things that you might not otherwise read? Want to talk about it? Join us for about an hour or so as we enjoy good discussions and good company.
Read to a Cat, Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Charles H Gere Branch Library, 2400 South 56th Stree Room #2. Reading to an animal helps kids relax and enjoy reading instead of dreading it. It is simple and it works! To register, contact Allisons at allisontalkspets@gmail.com
Read to a Dog, Thursdays at 4 p.m. Bennett Martin Library, 136 S. 14th Street. Come read to Pax. These are drop-in sessions so there's no need to register! Reading with to an animal helps kids relax and enjoy reading instead of dreading it. It is simple and it works!
SBSRC Writing Group Mini-Retreat, Fridays at 10 a.m. The Mill at Innovation Campus, 2021 Transformation Dr #1350.
Storytelling Group, Fourth Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. Union College, Ortner Center Building, 48th and Prescott Ave.
Young Adult Book Club, Last Tuesday of every month. 7 - 8 p..m. Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe, 701 P Street, Suite 102. Group meets to discuss young adult fiction with a wide variety of book themes.

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Various

Page Turners: Book Club, Ashland, NE. Last Tuesday of each month. 10 - 11 a.m. Ashland Public Library, 1324 Silver Street.
Sundays at the Museum, Bancroft, NE. Sundays at 2 p.m. John G. Neihardt State Historic Site, 306 W Elm Street.
A Novel Idea Book Club, Fremont, NE. The 3rd Tuesday of every month. 7 p.m. Wine Experience, 415 Main Street. Come join us for a fun discussion and friendly company. Click here to see the title for each month.
Book Club for Adults, Grand Island, NE. First Tuesday of every month. 5:30 p.m. Grand Island Public Library, 1124 W 2nd St. Click here for the 2019 selections.
To Read or Not to Read, Grand Island, NE. Last Monday of every month. 1 p.m. Grand Island Public Library, 1124 W 2nd St.
Open Mic Night, Kearney, NE. The first Monday of every month. 8 p.m. The Other Side, 15 E. 24th Street. Come and show off your talent. Whether it is music, comedy, poetry, or anything else you want to show.
Suite Storytime Hour, Kearney, NE. The second Monday of every month. 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Suite Child, 2304 Central Ave. All ages are welcome!
Open Book Club, Kearney, NE. The second Monday of every month. 6:30 - 8 p.m. Kearney Public Library, 2020 1st Avenue. No registration is required and is open to anyone over the age of 18. Contact the library for more information.
Writer's Block, Kearney, NE. 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month. 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Kearney Public Libary, 2020 1st Avenue. This informal writing group meets twice a month to keep writer's block away. No experience is necessary - just the willingness to write. No registration is required.
2019 Reading Challenge, Omaha, NE. Mix up your reading this year! Omaha Public Libraries have created a challenge to help you get outside your reading comfort zone. Each month presents a new challenge. Tackle them all to qualify for prizes.
Lit Pub Quiz, Omaha, NE. The first Wednesday of every month. Pageturners Lounge, 5004 Dodge Street. A monthly book-themed pub quiz with prizes.
Romance Authors of the Heartland, Omaha, NE. 2nd Saturday of every month. 9:30 a.m. Omaha Public Library - Millard Branch, 13214 Westwood Lane.
Imaginary Gardens Reading Series, Omaha, NE. 3rd Tuesday of every month. 7 p.m. Mister Toad, 1002 Howard Street.
Nebraska Writers Workshop, Ralson, NE. Every Wednesday. Baright Public Library Meeting Room, 5555 South 77th Street. 5:30 - 6 p.m. Teens only; 6 - 6:30 p.m. Poetry; 6:30 - 7 p.m. Scripting (Stage & Film); 7 - 9 p.m. Fiction & Readings for Feedback.
Book Discussion Group, Schuyler, NE. The second Tuesday of every month. 7 - 8 p.m. Schuyler Public Library, 108 E. 18th Street.

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