Together with our community partners, the Community Read features a variety of events from book clubs and discussions, to author programs and children's activities, all related to the year’s theme.
There are so many ways to celebrate the Community Read in our region. Below is a complete calendar listing of events at Longwood Gardens and our Community Read partner organizations. Find an event near you and share your thoughts with our community! Be sure to check back regularly for newly added programs.
2023 Community Read Events
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February 1-28
Community Read Inspired Teen Art Contest
Free
Presented by: Delaware County Libraries
Location: Online
Teens! We invite you to participate in our Fourth Annual Teen Art Contest! This year's contest is based on the 2023 Longwood Gardens Community Read theme of how food is a connector of people—especially for special moments—and how food connects to the world of plants and gardening. All artwork should be inspired by this theme. This contest is open to students in 6th-12th grades.
How to Enter
Submit your original artwork to one of our participating libraries along with the completed and signed entry form, or enter your submission online below. Submit your entry online. (Please note: this requires a Google account. If this is an issue please email ccrow@delcolibraries.org)
Artwork will be accepted online and in person, through Feb. 28th at 5 p.m. Each library will choose a winner. Local library winners will be announced March 13th. Winning pieces from each local library will be displayed at Rose Tree Park StoryWalk® and online at www.delcolibraries.org/Teen-Art-Contest with voting for the County-wide winner from March 22nd through March 31st. Each local winner will receive a sketchpad, a set of metallic watercolors, a ticket good for up to 4 people for entry to Longwood Gardens and their artwork displayed at Rose Tree Park. The County-wide winner will be announced April 3rd and will receive a teen book basket and their artwork will grace the front cover of our annual Poetry Contest Anthology.
February 8
Newtown Public Library Cookbook Club, 6:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Newtown Public Library
Location: Newtown Public Library, 201 Bishop Hollow Road, Newtown Square, PA 19073
Do you love to cook and explore new recipes? Then this club is for you! Join us for this special Black History Month edition as we cook dishes from the 2023 Longwood Gardens Community Read selection, Black Food which was edited and curated by Bryant Terry, as well as other cookbooks from black chefs. Space is limited so please register at newtownlibrary.org and then stop by the library to choose your recipe. For more information, please contact Arlene Caruso at arlene@newtownlibrary.org.February 11
Garden Talk & Seed Swap, 10:00 am
Free
Presented by: Indian Valley Public Library
Location: Indian Valley Public Library, 100 E. Church Ave., Telford, PA 18969
The Indian Valley Gardeners will host an garden-related event that will include a speaker and Seed Swap at Indian Valley Public Library in the Community Room. Gardening concepts from The Comic Book Guide to Growing Food will be highlighted during the presentation.February 11
Open Art Studio, 11:00 am
Free
Presented by: Upper Darby Township Library - Municipal Branch
Location: Upper Darby Township Library - Municipal Branch, 501 Bywood Ave., Upper Darby, PA 19082
Come to the UDTL-Municipal Branch to tap into your creative side and do art for hours! We'll supply art materials including paint, pastels, markers, colored pencils, watercolors, canvas, etc. and you bring the creativity. You are welcome to enter your completed art project into the TEEN ART CONTEST if you so choose. The theme of the art contest is "Food is a connector of people." The deadline for submitting your completed art project is Feb. 28th at 5:00 pm. Be sure to read and follow the contest rules and complete and sign the entry form. (These are available at the library). Open to teens in grades 6-12.February 11
Family Storytime with Hakimah Jabbar, 1:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Yeadon Public Library
Location: Yeadon Public Library, 809 Longacre Boulevard, Yeadon, PA 19050
Hakimah will be reading from Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie. She will be showing a short YouTube video of Edna Lewis. We will also have a small seed starter kit, and use a couple of recipes from Edna's cookbooks.
February 13
Cookbook Club - Black Food by Bryant Terry, 6:00 pm
Free
Presented by: North Wales Area Library
Location: North Wales Area Library, 233 South Swartley St., North Wales, PA 19454
Join us as we create recipes from the book Black Food! We will discuss, taste and enjoy dishes featured in Black Food by Bryant Terry! Attendees will each choose a recipe from the cookbook, make it and bring the dish to the meeting for all to taste. RSVP required 215-699-5410February 14
Black Food Discussion, 2:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Kirkwood Library
Location: Kirkwood Library, 6000 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE 19808
Kirkwood Library Book Club will be discussing Black Food.February 15
Adult Book Club, 10:00 am
Free
Presented by: Claymont Library
Location: Claymont Library, 400 Lenape Way, Claymont, DE 19703
Join readers for a lively and enlightening book discussion on Black Food: Stories, Art, and Recipes from Across the African Diaspora by Bryant Terry.February 16
Story Time and Craft! Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie, 10:30 am
Free
Presented by: Presented by: Atglen Public Library
Location: Atglen Public Library, 121 Main St., Atlglen, PA 19310
Ms. Maureen will feature Bring Me Some Apples and I’ll Make You a Pie: A Story About Edna Lewis for ages 4–7 by Robbin Gourley, traces the roots of Edna Lewis, a descendant of slaves who grew up to be a famous chef, and includes five kid-friendly recipes.
February 18
Hockessin Library Cookbook Club, 12:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Hockessin Library
Location: Hockessin Library, 1023 Valley Road, Hockessin, DE 19707
Do you love food? How about talking about food? Making food? If you answered 'yes' to any of those questions, have I got a book club for you! In the Cookbook Club, we sample each others' cooking and talk about cookbooks, cooking shows, and anything food oriented! Sometimes we get these recipes out of books, and sometimes from our own recipe boxes! Interested? Join us! This month, we team up with Longwood Gardens and their Community Read Program selection, Black Food by Bryant Terry. Please contact Cheryl Clem, Library Specialist, at 302-239-5160 for further details or email cheryl.clem@newcastlede.govFebruary 19
Teen Cooking & Culture Club - Black Food 1:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Newark Free Library
Location: Newark Free Library, 750 Library Ave., Newark, DE 19711
Teens will prepare a dish selected from Bryant Terry's Black Food cookbook, in recognition of Black History month. After the food is made and eaten, teens will have free time for games and fellowship.
February 22
Story Time with Miss Jennifer, 10:00 am
Free
Presented by: Honey Brook Community Library
Location: Honey Brook Community Library, 687 Compass Road, Honey Brook, PA 19344
Story Time with Miss Jennifer. Our theme is “Gardens!” Join us for preschool stories and a craft about gardens featuring our Longwood Gardens Community Read book, Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie by Robbin Gourley. For ages 2 -5, but all ages are always welcome.
February 23
Story Time with Miss Jennifer, 10:00 am
Free
Presented by: Honey Brook Community Library
Location: Honey Brook Community Library, 687 Compass Road, Honey Brook, PA 19344
Story Time with Miss Jennifer. Our theme is “Gardens!” Join us for preschool stories and a craft about gardens featuring our Longwood Gardens Community Read book, Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie by Robbin Gourley. For ages 2 -5, but all ages are always welcome.
February 23
Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie - Story Time, 11:00 am
Free
Presented by: Lansdale Library
Location: Lansdale Library, 301 Vine St., Lansdale, PA 19446
For this special story time we will read The Longwood Gardens Community Read selection, Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie: A Story About
Edna Lewis by Robbin Gourley. Come learn how different plants grow and how we use plants in our daily lives. Get a glimpse into the life of revered African American chef Edna Lewis.February 23
Adult Book Club - Black Food: Stories, Art, and Recipes from Across the African Diaspora, 6:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Atglen Public Library
Location: Atglen Public Library, 121 Main St., Atlglen, PA 19310
Join us for a discussion of this year's Longwood Garden's Community Read selection. The book is Black Food: Stories, Art, and Recipes from Across the African Diaspora by Bryant Terry. Longwood Gardens tickets available for limited number of participants. New participants are always welcome.
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March 1-31
Story Walk - Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie, available 24/7
Free
Presented by: North Wales Area Library
Location: North Wales Area Library, 233 S. Swartley Street, North Wales, PA 19454
Welcome spring with a visit to our Story Walk featuring Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make you a Pie. The Story Walk will be available the entire month of March. Starting with the title page, families can follow the path to read each page of the book in a beautiful outdoor setting. Drop in anytime for a reading adventure.March 2
Lunch and Lit, 1:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Claymont Library
Location: Claymont Library, 400 Lenape Way, Claymont, DE 19703
Here is a great way to meet people, explore ideas and learn something new. Join us for the book discussion of Black Food: Stories, Art, and Recipes from Across the African Diaspora by Bryant Terry. Light refreshments will be served.March 4
Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie, 2:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Darby Free Library
Location: Darby Free Library, 1001 Main St., Darby, PA 19023
A reading of Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie followed by making a living diorama.March 4
Start a Plant, 10:30 am
Free
Presented by: Roslyn Library
Location: Roslyn Library, 2412 Avondale Ave., Roslyn, PA 19001
Read Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie. Examine different parts of plants that we eat, see the parts of a developing squash plant and take home planted seeds to watch roots, stems and leaves develop.March 6
Well Read Book Club, 5:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Elsmere Library
Location: Elsmere Library, 30 Spruce Ave., Wilmington, DE 19805
Be a part of a book club that inspires your imagination and takes you on wonderful journeys with friends.The title for our March 6th meeting is Black Food: Stories, Art, and Essays from Across the African Diaspora by Bryant Terry. Book club members, and those that register after book club members get their copy, will receive a free copy of the book. New members are always welcome! Books are available for those who are registered. You may get a book by coming into the Elsmere or Route 9 library and asking for a copy at the Circulation Desk.
March 6
Cooks & Books | Black Food: Stories, Art & Recipes From Across the African Diaspora, 6:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Lewes Public Library
Location: Lewes Public Library, 111 Adams Ave., Lewes, DE 19958
Share your love of cooking and trying new recipes. Every month, the group selects a cookbook and each participant chooses a recipe from it to prepare for the following month’s meeting. The group meets on the first Monday of the month at 6:30 PM to try the dishes made and discuss the recipes. No registration required. Stop by the Circulation Desk to choose a recipe from this month's cookbook, Black Food: Stories, Art & Recipes From Across the African Diaspora by Bryant Terry.
March 8
Story Path: "Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie," 10:30-11:30 am
Free
Presented by: Quarryville Library Center
Location: Quarryville Library Center, 357 Buck Road, Quarryville, PA 17566
Ages 18 months to 7 years with caregiver – other family members are welcome. We will explore trees by reading the selection and some companion books, enjoy some movement and music, arts and crafts, and finally explore the Story Path for the beginning of the spring season! Registration is required: https://quarryvillelibrary.org/event/longwood-gardens-story-path-event-we-planted-a-tree-copy/?sd=1678233600. Drop in guests will be accommodated as space permits. Please register each child who is participating (to make sure we have sufficient crafts) and in the question provided please indicate all others who are joining your group today (spouse, grandparent, infant, older siblings) to ensure we set out enough chairs and prepare sufficient crafts.March 8
Hockessin Library's Noon Book Discussion Group, 12:00 pm
Free and open to the public
Presented by: Hockessin Library
Location: Hockessin Library, 1023 Valley Road, Hockessin, DE 19707
Join our lively, informal Noon Book Group as we discuss this year's Community Read. Please contact Shelley Stein, Adult Services Librarian, at 302-239-5160 for further details or email shelley.stein@newcastlede.govMarch 8
What's Cooking Kiddo? (PreK & K), 12:00 noon
Free
Presented by: Penn Wynne Library
Location: Penn Wynne Library, 130 Overbrook Parkway, Wynnewood, PA 19096
Celebrate the 2023 Longwood Gardens Community Read with a celebration of food! Learn to make your own snacks inspired by cultures around the world and learn about how food brings communities together. Attendees will receive a ticket for 4 to Longwood Gardens. Registration required.March 8
What's Cooking Kiddo? (Grades 1-4), 4:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Penn Wynne Library
Location: Penn Wynne Library, 130 Overbrook Parkway, Wynnewood, PA 19096
Celebrate the 2023 Longwood Gardens Community Read with a celebration of food! Learn to make your own snacks inspired by cultures around the world and learn about how food brings communities together. Attendees will receive a ticket for 4 to Longwood Gardens, and 3 attendees will receive a copy of the book Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie by Robbin Gourley. Registration required.March 9
Bingo for Books, 1:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Claymont Library
Location: Claymont Library, 400 Lenape Way, Claymont, DE 19703
Join us for a fun hour of Bingo at the Claymont Library. We'll have refreshments and you will spin for the book- Black Food: Stories, Art, and Recipes from Across the African Diaspora by Bryant Terry and a variety of other books as prizes.March 11
Food Ideas for Gardening and Gathering based on the book--Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie, 2:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Ardmore Free Library
Location: Ardmore Free Library, 108 Ardmore Ave, Ardmore, PA 19003
We will use the book, Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie, to have discussions and activities about some of the foods provided by our world.March 11
Science Saturday - I Beg Your Garden, 11am-3pm
Free with Admission to the Museum and Members
Presented by: Hagley Museum and Library
Location: Hagley Museum and Library, 200 Hagley Creek Road, Wilmington, DE 19807
In our Science Saturday kickoff program, we explore how plants grow and eventually make it to our tables. Plant seeds in an egg carton and start your own mini-garden. Learn how to care for your garden and find delicious recipes and inspiration in Black Food and Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie.
March 11
How Does Your Garden Grow? 12:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Upper Darby Township Libraries - Primos Branch
Location: Primos Library Branch, 409 Ashland Ave., Secane, PA 19018
Family storytime with Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie with seed growing activity.
March 13
Apple Stamping and Seed Viewing, 3:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Appoquinimink Community Library
Location: Appoquinimink Community Library, 204 E. Main St., Middletown, DE 19709
Come learn about how seeds grow and grow one of your own! Then use the left over apples to paint a masterpiece as we celebrate this year's Longwood Community Read for Children, Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You A Pie; A Story About Edna Lewis by Robbin Gourley.March 13
Test Your Buds. 6:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Penn Wynne Library
Location: Penn Wynne Library, 130 Overbrook Parkway, Wynnewood, PA 19096
For Grades 6-12
Celebrate the 2023 Longwood Gardens Community Reads with a celebration of food! Taste test popular snacks from around the world. Can you guess the flavor and the country? Attendees will receive a ticket for 4 to Longwood Gardens. Registration required.March 13-19
From Seed to Supper, during library hours
Free
Presented by: Lansdowne Public Library
Location: 55 South Lansdowne Ave., Lansdowne, PA 19050
Growing our own food is an act of sustainability, self reliance, and empowerment. Taking inspiration from The Comic Book Guide to Growing Food Lansdowne Public Library will be making kits available for distribution. Kits are complete with instructions, soil discs, biodegradable pots and packets of seeds. We encourage our participants to tag us as their seeds grow.
March 14
Spruce Avenue Bookies, 6:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Elsmere Library
Location: Elsmere Library, 30 Spruce Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19805
Book group will discuss Black Food: Stories, Art, and Recipes from Across the African Diaspora.
March 18
Apple-icious Taste Test!, 11:00 am
Free
Presented by: Newtown Public Library
Location: Newtown Public Library, 201 Bishop Hollow Road, Newtown Square, PA 19073
We'll read Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie, then try some different foods made with apples!
March 20
Beyond the Margins Book Club, 6:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Woodlawn Library
Location: Woodlawn Library, 2020 W. 9th St., Wilmington, DE 19805
Book discussion of Black Food. More information: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialWoodlawnLibraryMarch 20
Welcome Spring! 5:00 pm
Free
Presented by: North Wales Area Library
North Wales Area Library, 233 S. Swartley St., North Wales, PA 19454
Welcome Spring with a reading of Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make you a Pie. Children will also plant a seed to take home. This event is for families and children preschool - second grade.March 20
Springtime Walking Book Club, 1:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Quarryville Library Center
Location: 301 East State Street, Quarryville, PA
This event will take place off library premises. We will meet at the Enola Low Grade Trail entrance parking area found on 301 East State Street, Quarryville, PA. Pace will be very moderate to accommodate the slowest walker. We are launching a Walking Book Club to combine the pleasures of reading, exercise, and companionship! This is a one-time pilot event, based on interest we will offer it again during the spring and early summer. For this session, we will discuss Black Food by Bryant Terry. We’ve arranged for multiple copies to be available on Libby to read or listen to electronically, and we will have a few copies in the library system for checkout. During our walk, we’ll discuss passages from the book. After our walk (roughly 20 minutes out and 20 back), we will share a potluck snack in the parking lot featuring foods that have their roots in African culture. We will also have a drawing at the end of this event for all registered participants. The prizes will include a Longwood Gardens family pass and a copy of the book. Registration is required to be eligible for the drawing. Registration ensures that you will be notified for any changes due to weather conditions or other circumstances, so please consider registering on this site or call the Library for assistance. Please arrive on time at the starting point.
March 21
Hockessin Library's Evening Book Discussion Group, 7:00 pm
Free and open to the public
Presented by: Hockessin Library
Location: Hockessin Library, 1023 Valley Road, Hockessin, DE 19707
Join our lively, informal Evening Book Group as we discuss this year's Community Read. Please contact Shelley Stein, Adult Services Librarian, at 302-239-5160 for further details or email shelley.stein@newcastlede.govMarch 21
Overbooked Book Club - Adult Book Club, 6:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Brandywine Community Library
Location: Brandywine Community Library, 60 Tower Drive, Topton, PA 19562
The Overbooked Book Club will meet in the library to chat about Black Food by Bryant Terry. Come get a copy of the book. Pick a recipe, make it and bring it along with you to the book discussion. No need to register. Just join us.March 22
Cookbook Club, "Black Food" by Bryant Terry
Free
Presented by: Chester County Library
Location: Chester County Library, 450 Exton Square Parkway, Exton, PA 19341
The Chester County Library is excited to announce the re-start of the very popular pre-COVID program, the “Cookbook Club”!
Starting this month and continuing each month throughout the year, a cookbook will be chosen from our collection that represents a culture through their food. This month’s cookbook comes from the Longwood Gardens 2023 Community Read program. A limited number of One Day Passes for 4 to Longwood Gardens will be given away at this event.
To participate, visit the reference desk at the Chester County Library where you will be given the opportunity to browse Black Food: Stories, Art and Recipes from Across the African Diaspora by Bryant Terry. Choose a recipe, receive a photocopy and then make that dish and bring it to the “Cookbook Club” night. Participants will discuss the recipes they have chosen, their experience preparing the dish and any changes made. Dishes will be shared amongst the group for tasting. Participants will be encouraged to share food and culture stories from their own lives. Please bring plate, bowl and eating utensils (for tasting) and serving spoon for your dish. Registration is required. Registration will close 2 hours prior to the scheduled start time of the event.
March 22
Homeschool Potpourri - Goodies from the Garden, 1:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Upper Darby Library, Sellers Memorial Branch
Location: Sellers Memorial Branch, 76 S. State Road, Upper Darby, PA 19082
We will read Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie; discuss PA seasonal produce, do a planting project, and make a fruit salad.
March 28
Edible Parts of Plants, 6:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Honey Brook Community Library
Location: 687 Compass Road, Honey Brook, PA 19344
Miss Therese will be reading and discussing the Longwood Gardens Community Read Book Bring Me Some Apples and I’ll Make You A Pie: A Story about Edna Lewis by Robin Gourley. Join us at the library as we discuss the fruits and vegetables in the book. We will also learn about the parts of plants that grow our foods. Grades K-5. Registration is required. To register call the library at 610-273-3303 or email Miss Therese at tmauchline@ccls.org.
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April 1
Season Awake on the Preserve: Kids Read and Explore, 10:00 am
$5 per child, free for adults
Presented by: Natural Lands
Location: Hildacy Preserve, 1031 Palmers Mill Road, Media, PA 19063
Kids, bring your favorite adults and discover the spring season! As Edna and her family gather seasonal fruits and vegetables, so do the animals that call Hildacy home. We'll read the story Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie: A Story About Edna Lewis by Robbin Gourley and celebrate the spring season. Natural Lands is pleased to partner with Longwood Gardens' tenth annual Community Read with a look at how food connects people—especially for special moments—and how food connects to the world of plants and gardening. Families with young children (ages 18 months to 5 years) are invited to attend these nature discovery events designed to inspire a sense of wonder about the natural world. Through the sharing of stories each playful exploration engages both adults and children as we make new discoveries about the plants and animals in this beautiful forest habitat. Because we believe that we protect the places that we love, we hope to inspire young children to feel a friendly, respectful connection to nature – forming a foundation for curiosity and enjoyment to last a lifetime. Families are welcome to stay after the event to enjoy a picnic from home. Capacity is limited for this small-group event, and pre-registration is required: https://natlands.org/event/seasonawake-hildacy-2023-0401/April 1
Grow, Eat, Learn, 10:30 am
Free, registration required via link below
Presented by: Marple Public Library & Chef Dad's Table
Location: Marple Public Library, 2599 Sproul Rd., Broomall, PA 19008
Recommended Ages: 5-11 (accompanied by parent(s)/guardian(s)). Join Marple Public Library & Chef Dad’s Table for a fun-filled and educationally enriching program about how food connects us all to each other and the magical world of plants and gardening. We will start each program by learning about Edna Lewis and the book that inspired our recipe today, "Bring Me Some Apples and I’ll Make You a Pie: A Story About Edna Lewis". This inspiring and trailblazing book was written and illustrated by Robbin Gourley. We will continue our interactive program with Chef Dad’s Table by making our own Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits. Through this recipe, Chef Dad’s Table will incorporate the Spring and Summer harvest of strawberries and explain how it relates to our story shared today. Afterward, we will learn about strawberry plants and plant our own seeds. All registered participants will also receive a kid-friendly culinary packet to inspire your further foodie adventures. For all program attendees today (1 entry per family), we will raffle off Longwood Gardens Family Passes and announce winners at the end of each program. Registration Required via this link, https://delcolibraries.libcal.com/event/10321676April 1
Grow, Eat, Learn, 12:30 pm
Free, registration required via link below
Presented by: Marple Public Library & Chef Dad's Table
Location: Marple Public Library, 2599 Sproul Rd., Broomall, PA 19008
Recommended Ages: 5-11 (accompanied by parent(s)/guardian(s)). Join Marple Public Library & Chef Dad’s Table for a fun-filled and educationally enriching program about how food connects us all to each other and the magical world of plants and gardening. We will start each program by learning about Edna Lewis and the book that inspired our recipe today, "Bring Me Some Apples and I’ll Make You a Pie: A Story About Edna Lewis". This inspiring and trailblazing book was written and illustrated by Robbin Gourley. We will continue our interactive program with Chef Dad’s Table by making our own Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits. Through this recipe, Chef Dad’s Table will incorporate the Spring and Summer harvest of strawberries and explain how it relates to our story shared today. Afterward, we will learn about strawberry plants and plant our own seeds. All registered participants will also receive a kid-friendly culinary packet to inspire your further foodie adventures. For all program attendees today (1 entry per family), we will raffle off Longwood Gardens Family Passes and announce winners at the end of each program. Registration Required via this link, https://delcolibraries.libcal.com/event/10321677April 1
Apple Stamping Art: Make a Ladybug, 11:00 am
Free
Presented by: Oley Valley Community Library
Location: Oley Valley Community Library, 339 Main St, Oley, PA 19547
This program is in conjunction with the book, Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie: A Story about Edna Lewis by Robbin Gourley, available to borrow from the library. We're going to use a few apples as stamps to make some artwork. Turn those stamps into ladybugs, or use your imagination to create other pictures from the apple stamps.April 4
Garden Fun Storytime, 10:30 am
Free
Presented by: Upper Dublin Public Library
Location: Upper Dublin Library, 520 Virginia Dr., Fort Washington, PA, 19034
Join Miss Jenn as she reads Bring Me Some Apples and I’ll Make You a Pie: A Story About Edna Lewis by Robbin Gourley. Other garden stories and activities will be featured. All COVID protocols apply. UDPL is a Family Place Library™ Building Foundations for Early Learning
April 6
Community Read Story Time, 10:30-11:15 am
Free
Presented by: Bear Library
Location: Bear Library, 101 Governor's Place, Bear, DE 19701
Enjoy stories about growing food, music and movement. Includes a make-and-take craft. Groups of five or more must call ahead to register. Tickets available at the Kid’s Desk. Ages 3-5. 20 Tickets Available. https://delawarelibraries.libcal.com/event/10064762April 10
DIY Seed Balls, 4-5 pm
Free
Presented by: Bear Library
Location: Bear Library, 101 Governor's Place, Bear, DE 19701
Make your own seed balls that, when planted, will grow an assortment of vegetable plants for the spring. Materials provided.
Ages 6+. Space is limited and participants will be admitted on a first-come-first-served basis. Tickets will be given out 30 minutes before the program. 15 Tickets available. https://delawarelibraries.libcal.com/event/10117125April 10
Kids Can Cook, 5:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Wernersville Public Library
Location: Wernersville Public Library, 100 N. Reber Street, Wernersville, PA 19565
Miss Gabrielle will read Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie by Robbin Gourley, a story about Edna Lewis and life in Freetown, Virginia. Then we will join Mr. Tim to make strawberry shortcake and discuss the recipes found in the book. All attendees will be entered to win a 4-person pass to Longwood Gardens. A variety of fruit and vegetables will be available to sample for those who cannot have strawberries. Registration is not required. To learn more, stop in the library, call (610) 678-8771, or email: wernersvillepl@berks.lib.pa.us
April 12
Library Kid Chefs, 5-6 pm
Free
Presented by: Bear Library
Location: Bear Library, 101 Governor's Place, Bear, DE 19701
Learn how to use basic foods you find around your house to make fun, healthy and delicious snacks. Save the recipes to create your own personal cookbook. Best part? Eat the snack you prepare! Ages 7-12. Space is limited and participants will be admitted on a first-come-first-served basis. Tickets will be given out 15 minutes before program. 15 tickets available. https://delawarelibraries.libcal.com/event/10064941April 13
Bilingual Story Time - La Tierra-Nuestro Hogar (Earth- our home), 10:30-11 am
Free
Presented by: Bear Library
Location: Bear Library, 101 Governor's Place, Bear, DE 19701
Plant a garden of fruits and vegetables to eat! Join us for bilingual storytime. Learn the names of fruits and vegetables along the way in Spanish and in English. Ages 3+ with caregivers. 20 Tickets Available. https://delawarelibraries.libcal.com/event/10064973April 13
Lunch and Learn - Black Food Discussion, 12:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Lansdale Library
Location: Lansdale Library, 301 Vine St., Lansdale, PA 19446
Join us to discuss the Longwood Gardens Community Read book, Black Food: Stories, Art, and Recipes from Across the African Diaspora edited by Bryant Terry. A sampling of foods mentioned in the book will be available to try.April 15
Sizzle POP! 2:00 pm
Free
Presented by: William Jeanes Memorial Library
Location: William Jeanes Memorial Library, 4051 Joshua Road, Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
Families with children ages 3 - 7 are invited to join us for a musical performance and puppet show inspired by the book Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie by Robbin Gourley, presented by Crystal Murphy and the Murphy Murpets! This exciting, interactive program is full of traditional American folk music, instruments, singing, dancing, and musical "cooking!" Registration required.April 19
Paint and Chill, 5-7 pm
Free
Presented by: Bear Library
Location: Bear Library, 101 Governor's Place, Bear, DE 19701
Join the Bear library for step-by-step instructions to create a beautiful painting of vibrant citrus fruits. Program will start on time. You will need the full time to complete the painting.
Materials are supplied. Ages 12+. Space is limited and participants will be admitted on a first-come-first-served basis. Tickets will be given out 15 minutes before the program. 10 Tickets Available. https://delawarelibraries.libcal.com/event/10057239April 19
Seasonal Selections: A Seasonal Cookbook Club, 12:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Helen Kate Furness Free Library
Location: Helen Kate Furness Free Library, 100 N. Providence Road, Wallingford, PA 19086
Let’s get together and make new friends while enjoying delicious food, potluck style! Seasonal Selections is a seasonal cookbook club where each member picks a recipe from the same book and brings in the dish to share. We’ll discuss the book and recipes, suggestions and improvements, and cooking/baking tips & tricks while sampling all of the delectable snacks! Black Food: Stories, Art & Recipes From Across The African Diaspora edited by Bryant Terry is this month's selected title. This cookbook is also part of this year's Longwood Community Read. Everyone who attends will receive a voucher to Longwood Gardens and be put into a raffle to win their very own brand new copy of the book!
April 21
STEM Friday: A Longwood Gardens Community Read Special, 5:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Wernersville Public Library
Location: Wernersville Public Library, 100 N. Reber St., Wernersville, PA 19565
Just in time for Earth Day, Miss Gabrielle will read and discuss Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie by Robbin Gourley. Attendees will then learn about the growth cycle of plants, and put together small pots of dirt and seeds to grow at home, just like Edna did when she was a little girl in Freetown, Virginia. All attendees will be entered to win a 4-person pass to Longwood Gardens. A variety of vegetable and flower seeds will be available. Registration is not required. To learn more, stop in the library, call (610) 678-8771, or email: wernersvillepl@berks.lib.pa.usApril 22
Fruits and Vegetables, 12:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Folcroft Public Library
Location: Folcroft Public Library, 1725 Delmar Drive, Folcroft, PA 19032
Make a fruit and vegetable salad. Discuss the importance of growing and eating healthy with fruits and vegetables. Talk about the author of Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie.April 24
DIY Egg Carton Seed Craft, 4-5 pm
Free
Presented by: Bear Library
Location: Bear Library, 101 Governor's Place, Bear, DE 19701
Decorate an egg carton and plant vegetable seeds that will grow for the spring. Materials provided. Ages 6+. Space is limited and participants will be admitted on a first-come-first-served basis. Tickets will be given out 30 minutes before the program. 15 Tickets available. https://delawarelibraries.libcal.com/event/10117275April 26
Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie, 3:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Ridley Library and Delaware Museum of Nature & Science
Location: Ridley Township Public Library & Resource Center, 100 E. MacDade Blvd., Folsom, PA 19033
As part of the Longwood Gardens Community Read program, the Delaware Museum of Nature & Science comes to you to explore how the seasons are unique and their effect on the growth of local crops. Learn why we don't only get flowers after May showers, but all year long! Click here for more information.April 27
Community Read Story Time, 10:30-11:15 am
Free
Presented by: Bear Library
Location: Bear Library, 101 Governor's Place, Bear, DE 19701
Enjoy stories about growing food, music and movement. Includes a make-and-take craft. Groups of five or more must call ahead to register. Tickets available at the Kid’s Desk. Ages 3-5. 20 Tickets Available. https://delawarelibraries.libcal.com/event/10064762April 27
Seed Fun! 7:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Bala Cynwyd Library
Location: Bala Cynwyd Library, 131 Old Lancaster Rd, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Join Miss Sue for a fun program all about planting and growing your own food. Sure to be a tasty event. Online registration required, appropriate for ages 7-10.
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May 6
Everyone Eats: Cooking Through Time, 11:00 am
Admission cost to the farm: $10 adults, $6 children and seniors
Presented by: Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation
Location: Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation, Ridley Creek State Park, 3900 N Sandy Flash Drive, Newtown Square, PA 19073
Growing and preparing food is an essential part of everyday life. Listen to Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie by Robbin Gourley and learn about the life of Edna Lewis through an exploration our colonial garden and kitchen. Visit the farm to see our hearth cooks in action and learn how people prepared food in the 18th century.May 13
Saturday in the Garden, 10:00 am
Free
Presented by: Upper Dublin Public Library
Location: Upper Dublin Library, 520 Virginia Dr., Fort Washington, PA, 19034
Join Mr. Kyle as he reads Bring Me Some Apples and I’ll Make You a Pie: A Story About Edna Lewis by Robbin Gourley. Other garden stories and activities will be featured. All COVID protocols apply. UDPL is a Family Place Library™ Building Foundations for Early LearningMay 13
Reading Public Library Book Discussion: Black Food, 12:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Reading Public Library
Location: Southeast Branch, 1426 Perkiomen Ave., Reading, PA 19602
Join us as we discuss Black Food: Stories, Art & Recipes From Across the African Diaspora, edited by Bryant Terry, and sample a recipe from the book. Participants may also bring a recipe to share. All attendees will receive a family pass to Longwood Gardens and be entered into a drawing to receive their own copy of Black Food. Registration required. Call 610-655-6362 for more information.May 16
Bring me some recipes with Miss Suzanne, 7:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Bala Cynwyd Library
Location: Bala Cynwyd Library, 131 Old Lancaster Road, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Food connects us to the world of plants and to each other. We will be swapping recipes and stories about our families' favorite foods. Participants will make a recipe box, and take copies of our favorite families' recipes home. Participants are asked to bring a plant-based recipe on a 4x6 card that we can share with the whole group. Online registration required, appropriate for ages 8-12.
May 18
Southern Lehigh Public Library Book Discussion Group: Discussion of "Black Food," 7-8:30 pm
Free
Presented by: Southern Lehigh Public Library
Location: Southern Lehigh Public Library, 3200 Preston Lane, Center Valley, PA 18034
We will discuss the book Black Food. You don't have to register. Just come to the library at the time and date above and discuss the book!May 24
ELANCO Library STEM Night: "All From a Seed," 6:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Eastern Lancaster County Library (ELANCO)
Location: ELANCO Library, 11 Chestnut Drive, New Holland, PA 17557
This program for all ages will be focusing on how a seed becomes the food we eat. We will focus on life cycles, growing requirements, plant anatomy, and recipes highlighted in the book choices for the 2023 Community Read.May 25
Art After School: Apple Pie Drawing, 4:00 pm
Free
Presented by: Lansdale Library
Location: Lansdale Library, 301 Vine Street, Lansdale, PA 19446
Create a fun apple pie drawing based on the Longwood Gardens Community Read book, Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You a Pie.
May 27
STEAM Storytime, 11:00 am
Free
Presented by: Elsmere Library
Location: 30 Spruce Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19805
Join Ms. Debbie at the library for a special themed STEAM Story Time. Learn about a STEAM topic, listen to a story and do some activities and crafts. During this program we will be using the book Bring Me Some Apples and I'll Make You A Pie by Robbin Gourley. We will be planting seeds, learning about gardening, reading the book, and there will be a special surprise for the first 19 who register. Sponsored by Longwood Gardens and the Longwood Gardens Community Reads program.
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June 22
Community Read Story Time, 10:30 am
Free
Presented by: Warminster Library
Location: Warminster Library, 1076 Emma Lane, Warminster, PA 18974
Miss Ann will read Bring Me Some Apples And I'll Make You a Pie by Robbin Gourley on the Warminster Library's front lawn as part of the Longwood Gardens Community Read program. Join us after the story time for a fun nature themed scavenger hunt. We'll also have a few Longwood Gardens tickets to give out! This program is intended for ages 2-6, but all ages are welcome.