Unless otherwise noted, events listed on this page are free and open to the public. Please note: programs, dates, times and locations are subject to change. Some programs will be available for viewing later on the Big Read Wichita YouTube channel.
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Ongoing Events
Myths and Muses: A Teen Art Show
Teens are invited to submit an original artwork design based on mythology. Three prize winners will be selected to win Hobby Lobby Gift Cards, and all submissions will be featured in a virtual show on our social media platforms. A Virtual Art Show will be conducted via Facebook in February.
Application materials will be available on our website, at the front desk, at the Youth Services desk, and at the drive-thru window.
Submissions accepted from January 4-30, Derby Public Library, 1600 E. Walnut Grove
Digital Escape Room
Enter a digital escape room based on the novel Circe.
Available from January 9, 9:30 a.m. to February 21, 11:59 p.m., online via Andover Public Library
The Curse of Pandora's Box: A Take-Home Murder Mystery Box
Patrons are invited to pick up a murder mystery box which contains an entire story and all of the clues within it. This special box comes to you from the Acropolis Museum in Athens, Greece. Within it are the clues to a bitter betrayal and a subsequent murder. Madame Phoebe, the museum's benefactor of a new mythology exhibit, was gifted this box which contains clues to terrible secrets. Upon opening the box, Madame Phoebe was tracked down and killed. Before her demise, she sent the box to the only place she could think of; a public library. She hopes that a clever reader such as yourself will uncover the truth and bring her killer to justice.
Pick up the box at the Library either at the drive-thru window or at the front desk.
At-home with in-person supply pickup. Available from January 11-February 19, Derby Public Library, 1600 E. Walnut Grove
Beyond Aiaia: A Virtual Tour of Circe's Themes
Beyond Aiaia: Explore the cultural implications of Circe's themes. Visit the Andover Central High School Big Read site to discover a series of podcasts, slide shows, video games, and other virtual presentations that answer four questions inspired by Circe:
- How do monsters reflect culture?
- How does inheritance reflect family and society?
- How do self-perception and worldview work together?
- How do values determine punishment?
We'd love to have your comments and feedback. Please use the hashtags #BigReadWichita #BeyondAiaia #BigReadACHS to engage with our researchers on your chosen social media platform.
Available beginning January 25, online via Andover Central High School
Family ArtVenture: The Little Read
Explore the art in the galleries of the Wichita Art Museum and then create art at home inspired by this year's NEA: Big Read Wichita book. Travel back in time and learn about the civilizations of ancient Greece and Rome with fun hands-on activities.
January 9, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.,
online with in-person supply pickup via the Wichita Art Museum, 1400 W. Museum Blvd.
Big Read Virtual Kick-Off Celebration
Join us for a virtual kick off celebration for the NEA Big Read: Wichita. Over the next six weeks, we'll explore
Circe by Madeline Miller. This virtual kick off celebration will feature a variety of entertainment and fun. You can watch live on KPTS Channel 8. If you miss it, you can watch it later on
the Big Read Wichita YouTube channel. Support for the kick off comes from
the Friends of the Wichita Public Library.
January 9, 2:30-3:45 p.m.
Homer's Circe: a Reading from the Odyssey by poet and translator Stan Lombardo
Sit back and listen to the tale of Odysseus and Circe from Homer's
Odyssey, as poet and translator Stan Lombardo reads from his translation of Homer and gives a sense of what it might have sounded like in ancient Greek. Call
(316) 261-8500 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Big Read Movie Series: Wonder Woman (2017)
Six feet social distancing will be in place during this screening.
The Mediterranean Diet: A Virtual Cooking Class
The Mediterranean Diet is a simple lifestyle pattern that originates from the region surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. Studies have proven that this diet can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease. Join us for a virtual cooking class with Sara Sawer, nutrition, health and wellness agent with K-State Research and Extension — Sedgwick County. Discover ways to improve your eating patterns and learn how to make delicious new recipes that follow the Mediterranean Diet.
From Circe to Sabrina
The witch has been a popular figure in fairy tales and fiction for centuries, ranging from the traditional malevolent villain to the feminist hero as seen in recent years. Despite some of the more positive depictions, more often than not the witch stereotype has been used against women who have defied societal norms. Join us for an educational discussion with Jodie Simon, an instructor in women's studies and sociology at Wichita State University, where she will explore the evolution of the witch stereotype in popular culture and how and why it has been used to both repress and empower women who dare to be different. Call
(316) 261-8500 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Mythology & Me: Big Read Events for Kids and Teens
Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson & the Olympians series has popularized Greek mythology for a new generation of curious readers. Kids, teens, AND adults are invited to join Newton Public Library youth volunteer Hazel to get their Greek mythology questions answered: Who wrote the myths? Where did ancient Greeks worship? What is the difference between Greek, Roman, and Norse myths? Hazel will interview Jamie Banks, an expert on classical Greek and Latin literature and a Ph.D. student at the City University of New York. Other participants will also be welcome to ask questions and interact! Once you register, you will receive an email with a personal link you will use to join the Zoom webinar. The event will also be livestreamed on the Newton Public Library Facebook page. Have questions or need technical assistance? Call the Library at
316-283-2890 or email
library@newtonplks.org.
Craftaholics, Anonymous: Storm Lanterns
We will create storm lanterns to hand during the dark times. Supplies will be available for pickup at the Library after you register.
Third Tuesday Book Club (Clearwater)
January 18, 11 a.m.-Noon, Clearwater Public Library, 109 E. Ross
CANCELLED: Circe Book Discussion
A socially distanced book discussion hosted at Andover Public Library.
January 19, 10-11 a.m., Andover Public Library, 1511 E. Central Ave.
Big Read Movie Series: O Brother, Where Art Thou?
O Brother, Where Art Thou? is based on Homer's Odyssey. Six feet social distancing will be in place during this screening.
Teen Tuesday: Myths and Retellings
Teens will be able to pick up a Take Home Craft during the week of January 18 that will include instructions and materials to make cyclops eyes and tiny bow and arrows. Teens can then tune in on Tuesday, January 19 at 4 p.m. on Facebook for a live video of the craft demo, myth-inspired book recommendations, a link to our Greek Mythology trivia form, and access to an after-show Zoom Game where we'll play a variation of the mythology-inspired board game, Santorini.
Circe Book Discussion
Join us for a virtual discussion of Circe by Madeline Miller. Call
(316) 261-8500 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Bradford Book Group
In January, we will read and discuss Circe.
Virtual Preschool Storytime
A 30-minute early literacy program on Facebook Live for children ages 3-5. Read books, sing songs, perform fingerplays and wiggle with scarfs! Stop by the drive-thru to pick up a Pan Flute craft kit!
Refuel 22: Stab Binding Books
We will teach the teens how to create a stab binding book for them to create their own myths. Supplies will be provided at the Library once registered.
KMUW Virtual Literary Feast
KMUW's Literary Feast is a book club for public radio listeners. Join KMUW staff members for a virtual discussion of
Circe held via Zoom.
Register for the event to get the Zoom link.
Clear Reads Book Discussion
January 21, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Clearwater Public Library, 109 E. Ross
Circe in Film and Television
This video will explore how filmmakers and television producers portray Circe in filmed versions of Homer's
Odyssey and other stories. Following the film, Prof. Emma Scioli of the University of Kansas Classics Department, will answer audience questions. This program will be held online via Zoom. Call
(316) 261-8500 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register online. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
3rd Thursday Book Discussion
A regularly scheduled meeting of Newton Public Library's 3rd Thursday Book Discussion.
January 21, 7-8 p.m., online via Newton Public Library
Small Loom Weaving
The practice of spinning and weaving was an important part of the classical Greek world and is featured prominently in many stories in Greek mythology. In daily life, it was essential to survival and one of the few professions a woman could hold. Today, weaving is a treasured handicraft and gaining in popularity. Join us for a fun workshop to explore this craft, which is not only affordable, but portable, too. You can pick up your kit the week of the program, and join us for a live workshop to learn how to construct your loom and begin weaving.
Call (316) 261-8500 or visit wichitalibrary.org/events to register. Registration is open until 11 p.m. on January 14. Registration for this program is full. This program will be held online via Zoom. If you registered, a link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program. Program presented in partnership with
CityArts.
Virtual Preschool Storytime
Join us for a Greek-themed story time! Designed for ages 2-6. Pandora Box Make-It Kits will be available for pick up at the Goddard Public Library.
January 25, 9:30-10 a.m., online via Goddard Public Library
Madeline Miller's Song of Achilles: A Book Discussion
Circe isn't Miller's only novel. A short conversation about Madeline Miller's novel
Song of Achilles with Professor Gina White, KU Classics Department, and two KU students will be followed by an audience Q&A session. Call
(316) 261-8500 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Circe Book Discussion
McConnell AFB Library's As the Page Turns Book Club will be reading Circe.
Big Read Movie Series: Disney's Hercules
Six feet social distancing will be in place during this screening.
Constellations & Their Greek Myths
Orion, Scorpius, Gemini... their stories are written in the stars. Fred Gassert, Chairman of the Board for the Lake Afton Public Observatory, will share notable constellations and their Greek myths. Preparation for future stargazing! Call
(316) 337-9456 or register online at
wichitalibrary.org/events. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Circe Book Discussion
An in-person discussion hosted by Derby Public Library. Masks and social distancing required.
January 28, 3-4 p.m., The Lodge at Warren Riverview Park, 321 W. Market St.
K-5 on Facebook Live: Battle in Medusa's Lair
K-5th graders will be able to pick up a take home craft kit during the week of January 25 which will include materials to make a Medusa Snake Headband. Then elementary-aged patrons can tune in on Thursday, January 28 at 4 p.m. for the live video featuring a craft demo, myth and snake-themed book recommendations, our weekly Ninja-in-Training exercises, and our featured Art Quest submissions inspired by snakes!
Circe in Ancient Art
See how ancient vase painters imagined the enchantress Circe and her effect on those who visited her island in this presentation by Prof. Pam Gordon, Professor of Classics at KU. Call
(316) 261-8500 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Poetry Workshop: Make It New with Northfield School of the Liberal Arts
Poet and educator William Coleman, of Northfield School of the Liberal Arts, will host a creative space via Zoom in which young people and adults will encounter ancient Greek myths and reimagine them. Just as Madeline Miller reinvents ancient stories, giving them powerful voices in our time, visitors ages 12 and up will engage in hands-on reinvention, guided by a mentor. In this 60-minute session, participants will encounter a Greek myth, learn how other poets have reinvented that myth, then be led to their own reinvention of that myth. In the spirit of Madeline Miller, each student will emerge from the "make-it-new space" with a new work of art: a poem of their own invention. Call
(316) 261-8500 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Big Read Movie Series: Clash of the Titans (2010)
Six feet social distancing will be in place during this screening.
Keynote #1: A Look at Greek Mythology
Independent scholar, historian and WSU lecturer Kurt (Athanasios) Sherry will present a program focusing on Greek mythology, their Roman counterparts and the unique role that the enchantress Circe plays as she crosses paths with many of the most famous figures in all of mythology including the Minotaur, Daedalus and the cunning Odysseus. Call
(316) 261-8500 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Circe and Medea
In ancient myth, Circe had a famous niece who was also a witch: Medea. This presentation explores how the two figures are intertwined in ancient literature and legend. The session will be led by Dr. Paul Touyz, Assistant Professor in the University of Kansas Department of Classics. Call
(316) 261-8500 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Circe Book Discussion
Join us on Zoom to discuss this year's NEA Big Read book Circe by Madeline Miller. Register for the discussion and you will receive the link to the Zoom meeting by email.
Traveling Ancient Greece Beyond Athens
Greece abounds with temples, theaters, and early Christian ruins. Join Victoria Sherry of Eighth Day Books on her closeup visit to sites from the Greek past. Limited space available. Call
(316) 337-9456 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Circe Book Discussion
Join us for a virtual discussion of Circe by Madeline Miller. Call
(316) 337-9456 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Big Read Movie Series: Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief
Six feet social distancing will be in place during this screening.
Circe Book Discussion
Discuss Madeline Miller's Circe virtually via Zoom with APL librarians. Registration is required.
Day of Creativity Activity Series
Pinch Pots with CityArts
Experience pottery, a 10,000-year-old art form, by joining us in this one-hour pinch-pot workshop. Pick up clay and glaze at CityArts between February 8-12. Log on to this Zoom workshop on Saturday, February 13, at 10 a.m., to follow along with an instructor how to create your own unique vessel. Drop off your pottery by 5 p.m. on February 19 and we will fire your piece to be enjoyed for many years to come.
Call (316) 261-8500 or visit wichitalibrary.org/events to register. Registration for this program is full. This program will be held online via Zoom. If you registered, a link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Growing Mediterranean Herbs with K-State Research & Extension Master Gardeners
Mediterranean herbs – including basil, thyme, saffron and rue and several other herbs that Circe uses – are a valuable addition to any garden and can easily be grown in Kansas. Lisa LaRue, Extension Master Gardener Volunteer with K-State Research and Extension — Sedgwick County, will help you learn more about these herbs and how to grow them at home. Your Day of Creativity kit will include basil seeds and this workshop will help you learn how to start seeds in your CityArts pinch pot. Call
(316) 261-8500 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Story Weaving
Circe created beautiful, intricate weavings, but she could also weave an entrancing story. This is your opportunity to write and share a story of your own. Here's how it works: Some time BEFORE the Day of Creativity, please use one (or more) of the writing prompts and write a draft of a story to share. Then join us via Zoom on February 13. We will break into small Story Weaver Circles to share stories and revision ideas. Then, if you'd like, you may submit your story to go into the Library's Short Story Dispenser, which is adding a category for local writers! We are excited you are interested in weaving a story and sharing it with us! Call
(316) 337-9456 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
February 13, 1-2 p.m., online via Wichita Public Library
Novel Ideas with WSU's Art Education
Inspired by the mythological tale of Circe, WSU Art Education will lead participants through the process of creating a story using the WSU Ulrich Art Museum outdoor sculpture collection. Participants will learn how to stitch together their own stories figuratively and visually through making accordion-style pocketbooks. After exploring the sculpture collection, create a parable/story that brings the sculpture to life. The university's Art Education students will present instructional tutorials and facilitate assistance. Essential materials will be provided in a kit for the activity that will be picked up at the Advanced Learning Library. Supplies participants will need from home: scissors, ruler, magazines or newspapers for collage, and glue. Ages 7 through adult. Call
(316) 337-9456 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register.
February 13, 3:30-4:30 p.m., online via Wichita Public Library
Circe Book Discussion
Join us for a virtual discussion of Circe by Madeline Miller. Call
(316) 261-8500 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Big Read Movie Series: Hercules (2014)
Six feet social distancing will be in place during this screening.
Virtual STEAM Class
Join us for a Greek Mythology Virtual
STEAM class. Our STEAM class is designed for kindergarten through third grade, but you can easily use the experiments and challenges for both older and younger kiddos with more or less adult assistance. Supplies needed and packets can be picked up a week before the class.
February 18, 10:30-11:30 a.m., online via Goddard Public Library
Keynote #2: The Art of Reinvention Keynote
Join poets and educators Jeanine Hathaway and Bill Coleman as they engage in a dialogue about the nature and power of artistic reinvention. What moves an artist to want to reimagine the past, and what technical moves are common to great reimaginings? How is that ancient figures like Circe can speak so eloquently in–and to–our time? What makes Madeline Miller's reinvention of myth so powerful? Call
(316) 261-8500 or visit
wichitalibrary.org/events to register online. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Virtual Bedtime Story Time
Join us for a constellation-themed story time! Books, songs and finger plays. It's a perfect way to end the day.
February 18, 7:30-8 p.m., online via Goddard Public Library
Circe Book Discussion
Discuss Madeline Miller's Circe virtually via Zoom with APL librarians. Registration is required.
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