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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 18, 2016
Media Contact: Jill Schacter jschacter@cityofevanston.org
Phone:  847/448-8628

EPL Honors Shakespeare through Joint Program Initiative

Evanston Public Library joins libraries across the state of Illinois in February 2016 to celebrate the timeless works of William Shakespeare who died 400 years ago. EPL is proud to take part in a collaborative reading and program initiative, #DiscoverWill: Illinois Libraries Celebrate Shakespeare's First Folio, with five different programs including discussions geared at adults, workshops, crafts and films for teens. This Shakespeare programming coincides with a traveling exhibit of Shakespeare's First Folio, considered by many to be one of the greatest books ever printed in English. The exhibit, on loan from the Folger Shakespeare Library, will be on display at the Lake County Discovery Museum from February 3-28.  Don't miss your chance to see one of the rarest, most valuable and most influential books in the world––the 1623 Shakespeare First Folio.

Evanston Public Library's  #DiscoverWill programs include these discussions for adults:

Shakespeare in the Middle East: Monday, February 8, 7 pm, Main Library

Co-sponsored by Silk Road Rising Theatre in Chicago, this program features Riad Ismat, a Buffett Institute Visiting Scholar, former Syrian minister of culture, and an award winning Syrian short-story writer and author. He discusses Shakespeare's lengthy performance history in the Middle East and how it connects today to a broader Middle Eastern audience. Register online or by calling 847-448-8620.

The First Folio: How We Almost Lost Macbeth: Sunday, February 14, 3 pm, Main Library

The First Folio of Shakespeare, published in 1623, is a unique literary treasure. Collected, collated and edited by two of Shakespeare's fellow actors and friends, John Heminge and Henry Condell, this volume contains a collection of 37 plays -- 18 of which had not appeared in print before the First Folio, and so would have been lost were it not for this document. Join Helen Page, Professor Emeritus of English at Oakton Community College and Joseph Page, actor with the Muse of Fire Theater Company, as they explore the fascinating history and literary significance of the First Folio, considered by many to be one of the greatest books ever printed in English. Register online or by calling 847-448-8620.

Evanston Public Library #DiscoverWill programs include these activities for teens:

Shakespeare Sonnets and Soliloquies for Teens: Sunday, February 14, 2 pm, Main Library

Come to the Teen Loft to learn about writing and performing Shakespearean-style poems or dramatic speeches. The program includes Shakespeare-inspired theatre games, writing, and oration. This fun drop-in workshop is open to all teens. No performance background is necessary.

Teen DIY Drop-in -- Shakespeare Flower Crowns: Monday, February 15, 1 pm, Main Library

Visit the Teen Loft throughout the afternoon to make Shakespearean flower or throne crowns. You'll look just like the fairies from "A Mid-Summer Night's Dream" or the Roman Soldiers from "Julius Caesar". We provide the supplies; you bring the creativity. Drop in anytime until 5 pm.

Teen Film Screening -- 10 Things I Hate About You: Monday, February 15, 7 pm, Main Library

This classic 90s teen film is based on William Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. Come to the Teen Loft to watch it on our big screen with your friends.

Check out the complete list of Shakespeare-inspired programs and the participating libraries at #DiscoverWill: Illinois Libraries Celebrate Shakespeare's First Folio.

About the Evanston Public Library

For more than 140 years, the Library has provided educational, culturally-rich resources for all residents, helped children prepare for school through the joys of reading and learning, celebrated Evanston’s diversity, and helped residents find information they seek. The Library is more than a building of books; it is a place to meet, connect, learn and explore. To learn more, visit www.epl.org.