Through picture books, readers embark on visual journeys that engage all the senses and encourage curious, imaginative, and thoughtful interactions with the world around them.

Museum Hosts New Children’s Book Illustrations Exhibit, Programs

Since 1938, the Association for Library Service to Children, a division of the American Library Association, has recognized the significant impact of art on early reading experiences, awarding the Caldecott Medal for excellence in this area.

The Old Courthouse Heritage Museum’s new exhibit, entitled, “Young at Art,” celebrates the art of
illustration through April. This exhibition of works from Wichita Falls Museum of Art’s permanent
collection celebrates the vision and talent of twenty-eight artists, ranging from Caldecott Medal recipients
to “runner-up” honor books, as well as other illustrations by award-winning artists.

It will also include miniature display about the history of Citrus County’s libraries and their current-day literacy programs.
On Saturday, March 25, 2023, the museum will open the exhibit to the public. A free reception including
free refreshments will be held from 3:00pm to 5:00pm to showcase the illustrations. All are welcome.

To coincide with the exhibit, the museum will host a free “Illustration Creations” event on Saturday, April
15 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. Children (ages 5 and up) are asked to choose their favorite book with their
favorite illustrations and bring it with them to the museum. Museum staff will help them create a 3D image from the story. Adult supervision is required for the duration of the program. Supplies are limited, so please call ahead to pre-register.

In addition, the museum has welcomed Dr. Ramona Caponegro to speak at their upcoming Coffee and
Conversations event on Wednesday, April 26 at 7:00pm. Dr. Caponegro will introduce the man behind
the book award’s name: nineteenth-century illustrator Randolph Caldecott, explaining the importance of
the award by examining some of the winners over the award’s 85-year history. As a member of the 2023
Caldecott Medal selection committee, Dr. Caponegro will also give her insider insight into the selection
process of recipients today.

For more information, please call (352) 341-6428 or e-mail museum@citrusbocc.com.