“Its no small thing to put yourself and your art out there for others to see,” Manager Abby Hargreaves said.
“I see a lot of kids who feel over scheduled and who are looking for a way to express themselves publicly, with limited instruction as to how. This program gave kids an opportunity to share their art and ideas on their own timeline”
In honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, the Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library hosted a month-long art showcase. Nine young students from the Alexandria community were given the opportunity to share their art with others, highlighting the value of self-expression and community engagement.
Hargreaves, the event’s organizer, works to share art with the community and encourage others to take advantage of the library’s opportunities. “I really love the idea of a sense of community ownership of a public library – this is your public library after all –” she shared.
The library hosts a variety of events similar to these, giving visitors of all ages a chance to engage with art and literature. Aspiring authors and artists can enjoy activities at the Burke Branch Library year-round, including this Mini Art Show, multiple book clubs, group seminars and more.
“At the end of the day, libraries are about information. Information is often available in print, but it can also be in the form of a program or event, a piece of art, a conversation with a neighbor, a computer connection, and many other forms,” Hargreaves explained. “Everyone is welcome, and we encourage everyone to visit.”
To find the future scheduled events of 2026, view the Branch Library newsletter.
