Wake County Public Libraries will commemorate America’s 250th anniversary with a variety of special programs, reading lists and new StoryWalk kits that celebrate the diverse stories and voices that shaped the nation’s history.
“The America 250 series is about highlighting the many perspectives and experiences that make up our country’s past,” said Safiyah Jackson, vice chair, Wake County Board of Commissioners. “Our libraries have created multiple ways for families and community members to explore our shared history and enjoy time together.”
StoryWalk kits
Beginning this month, America 250–themed StoryWalk kits will be available for checkout. Perfect for community groups and organizations, these kits create engaging outdoor reading experiences. Each kit features a children’s title that explores themes from the Revolutionary War era through prose, poetry and vivid illustrations.
Each StoryWalk kit contains 17-21 panels of book content, 17-21 corrugated plastic boards with Velcro mounting, 17-21 metal yard stakes, and installation and breakdown instructions. Featured StoryWalk titles include:
- “When Paul Revere Rode: Voices from the First Night of the American Revolution” by Sarah L. Tomson, illustrated by Nik Henders.
- “Spy Called James: The True Story of James Lafayette, Revolutionary War Double Agent” by Anne Rockwell, illustrated by Floyd Cooper.
- “Revolutionary Mary: The True Story of One Woman, the Declaration of Independence, and America’s Fight for Freedom” by Karen Blumenthal and Jen McCartney, illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley.
- “Land of the Free: America’s ABC” by Devin Scillian, illustrated by Pam Carroll.
- “America the Beautiful: The Beloved Classic Song Brought to Life” illustrated by Jill De Haan.
Kits will be available for reservation online and will circulate for three weeks at a time. They will be offered through December 2027.
America 250 library programs
Throughout July and August, local libraries will host a slate of programs for all ages that explore early American history, government and culture. All events are free, but some require registration. A full schedule of events is available online …