Earlier this month, IRW partnered with the Jesup Memorial Library to host Mac Barnett, National Ambassador for Children’s Literature, for two public events. Abby Morrow, Youth Service Librarian, shared with us some of her favorite moments from the day.

On June 3, the Jesup Memorial Library opened our expansion, the Thomas Lord Wing, to the public. A visit from Mac Barnett made this day even more memorable. 

When Mac arrived at the Jesup, he stopped by the new Children’s Room to meet some of his young fans. He was excited to see the new space and meet some of his readers. He browsed books with his family until it was time to get ready for the first event.

We hosted the afternoon program in the library’s historic Reading Room. The space quickly filled up with teachers, librarians, and authors who all share a love of children’s literature. Mac was a wonderful interviewee. He shared his favorite current illustrators (Maine’s own X. Fang was highlighted), talked about getting his start with 826 LA, andspoke about his work and the influence that Margaret Wise Brown has had in his life. 

At the 6 p.m. event, families gathered in the new Community Room to hear Mac read three picture books. The kids sat up front. Mac had a presentation on a screen to make sure everyone in the room could see the pictures. As we got started, something glitched with the slideshow, and all of the slides went flying by. Mac joked, “Oh, no!  Close

Kids in attendance at the community program delighted in Mac’s signature sense of humor, and told jokes of their own!

your eyes!” Once he had fixed the presentation, he started reading his picture book, Leo: A Ghost Story, which begins: “This is Leo. Most people can’t see him.”  With perfect comedic timing, one little girl said “Because we still have our eyes closed!”  

After both presentations, readers of all ages had a chance to meet Mac and to get a book signed. We were delighted to collaborate with Island Readers & Writers for these events. We were so lucky to have local photographer extraordinaire Katherine Emery with us to capture these moments. Thank you to the Children’s Book Council and the Library of Congress. It was truly a magical day and one that we won’t soon forget.

Maine author & illustrator Chris Van Dusen (left) with MAc Barnett; Mac’s book President Taft is Stuck in the Bath was illustrated by Chris.

A young artist gets to meet one of his favorite authors.

Waiting in line to meet Mac & have him sign books.