Library Looks Forward to Hosting Living Lessons

There is always a wealth of programming at the Brookfield Public Library, with classes and clubs scheduled nearly every day, for young and old alike.

But librarians are particularly excited about a couple of special events approaching in April – events in which books can come to life in a couple of different ways.

At 7 p.m. April 18, you can meet the longest serving First Lady in U.S. history, Eleanor Roosevelt, and hear her tell her own story.

The magic to bring her back to life is in the talents of professional actress Jessica Michna, who will portray Roosevelt in a free presentation in the Community Room, with no registration required.

Michna blends her two greatest loves, history and the theatre, by scripting, staging and costuming her own one-woman biographies. She also performs First Ladies Mary Todd Lincoln and Abigail Adams.

A murder mystery and something to chew on

A few days later, on April 22, the library presents a new installment of "Read It and Eat," offered three times a year with a new theme each time.

This time around, it's a mystery set at Old World Wisconsin, with a discussion of author Kathleen Ernst's novel "Old World Murder." The story revolves around a priceless Norwegian artifact donated long before – and its strange connection to a modern-day murder.

Dinner is part of the presentation, and of course it's themed to go along with the program – roast turkey, cornbread, potatoes, vegetables and pie, all done the old-fashioned way.

It's free, but for a limited audience. Registration is now open and is necessary for "Read It and Eat." It's also important that you read the book.

Register at the Adult Reference Desk or call 262-782-4140, Option 1. You can pick up the book at the Circulation Desk.

And, as a treat for admirers young and old, author Ernst will be the special guest at "A Tea for American Girl Fans," at 3:30 p.m. April 25. It's for parents with their 7 to 12 year-old children. Registration is required.

Ernst will return at 7 p.m. for an open "Meet the Author" session. All are welcome, no registration required.