Picture Book Parade

OUR MISSION: To promote love, literacy, and local authors by hosting storytelling exhibits in unexpected places. 

OUR VISION: We envision a world where kid lit artists can thrive and young readers can see themselves, their families, and their communities in books and bookmakers.

While we love traditional events in libraries and bookstores, we aim to bring the pages to the people! An everyday errand becomes an invitation to enjoy Minnesota-made books. Young dreamers can meet artists who live in their neighborhoods. 

WHAT WE DO:

We support artists from under-considered communities by fairly compensating them for their creativity and time

We give artists a platform, buy and give away their books, and give them exhibit materials to display and promote their books

We create interactions between readers and artists in everyday spaces

We showcase stories depicting the beauty and complexity of our state and its diverse cultures, communities, and traditions

HOW WE DO IT:

We offer book exhibits, story times, and free books in a variety of venues including the Midtown Farmers Market, the Mall of America, MSP Airport, and festivals all over town. We also sponsor literary events for partner organization like Read With Me MN, Reach Out and Read, SOWASHCO Cares, Sweet Potato Comfort Pie, and the Minnesota BIPOC KidLit Creators. This allows us to share artists and books with the folks they serve.

Our book displays are a treat for active readers on-the-go. They also act as larger-than-life book promotions for local authors and illustrators. They end with QR codes so readers can buy the books online. Artists are invited to visit with families and to read their books during storytime. They can keep their exhibits for future strolls.

YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS!

With help from the Minnesota State Arts Board, the Metro Regional Arts Council, and community contributions, we've done big things! 

We've created 99 new story exhibits showcasing work by Minnesota authors and illustrators

We matched over 1000 free books with their new, very excited readers

94% of participating artists say they benefitted from our partnership

100% of survey respondents at MSP Airport and the Midtown Farmers Market say our projects have been a positive part of their experience.

We designed and created our strolls at a local print company

WHAT'S NEXT:

We are always looking for new ways to share stories in community. Your support will help us bring new books, story strolls, and story times to hospitals and clinics in Greater Minnesota. We also aim to offer a new, longer exhibit at the airport.