From September 16-18, I had the opportunity to perform at a number of libraries in the Toledo-Lucas County Library system. The first stop in my tour was the Main Library, and it was absolutely magical. From the moment you enter the children’s area, you are greeted by a larger-than-life book with the words “Once Upon A Time” and “they lived  happily ever after,” inscribed on its pages. This book invites you to step through a door of amazing reading adventures!

A real Caddy that young patrons can “drive” as featured in Toledo author Mildred D. Taylor’s book, “The Golden Cadillac.”

Once inside you are greeted by some of your favorite literary characters like the BFG and Nancy Drew who adorn the bookshelves. There’s a colorful fish tank, as well as the front end of a real Cadillac which invites young patrons to climb inside and “take a drive.” The library is also home to an impressive collection of original artwork by local as well as nationally-known illustrators. Below each original piece of artwork is a shelf holding the book to which the image corresponds. The library is truly a visual delight, a feast for the eyes, and an invitation into the realm of imagination for even the biggest of kids!

The BFG (one of my personal favorites!) watches young readers from above!

Nancy Drew clings to a working clock at the end of a book shelf!