Celebrate a Birthday Bash with Children’s Author Deanna Sjogren

Project Details by Fiscal Year
2014 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$12
Fund Source
Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund
Recipient Type
Libraries
Status
Completed
Start Date
April 2014
End Date
April 2014
Activity Type
Education/Outreach/Engagement
Counties Affected
Brown
Brown
Project Overview
Local author and illustrator Deanna Sjogren of Lafayette, MN shared her children’s book “It’s a Birthday!,” published by Dreamland Books. Named a 2012 Book of the Year Finalist in Foreword Magazine, Sjogren’s book teaches children the days of the week and counting skills. A birthday card craft at the end of the book gives readers a chance to use their creative skills, too. During her presentation at the New Ulm Public Library, Deanna shared a storytime with children and their families. Following storytime, children decorated their own birthday cake card to take home.
Project Details
17 participated
Legal Citation / Subdivision
Laws of Minnesota for 2013 Chapter 137, Article 4, Section 2, Subdivision 4
2014 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$12
Other Funds Leveraged
$120
Direct expenses
$132
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

Written evaluations were given to all adult attendees. It was expected that a majority of respondents would learn something about Deanna Sjogren and her experiences as a writer/designer, learn something about creating a picture book, be interested in checking out Sjogren’s book or other picture books and want to tell a friend or family member about the library and its programs.

Measurable Outcome(s)

The surveys reflect that those attending the program learned something about Sjogren’s writing and design process and the work entailed in putting together a picture book--especially the many hours, drafts, and illustrations required. The author program also got families excited to check out more picture books. It was encouraging to see that all of those who completed the survey stated they would be interested in attending a future family program at the library and would also recommend the library’s programs to family and friends. From librarian’s perspective, the author program with Deanna Sjogren was a success. Sjogren’s creativity made it a memorable evening. She set up the evening like a birthday party with party hats for the children and birthday card kits to make and take home. Although the number of attendees was small, those at the program enjoyed the book and were excited for the birthday card craft project. Both children and parents appreciated the chance to share an evening together and enjoyed talking with Sjogren. Several attendees also purchased copies of “It’s a Birthday!” to share with others.

Source of Additional Funds

Friends of the New Ulm Public Library

Project Manager
First Name
Dayle
Last Name
Zelenka
Organization Name
Traverse des Sioux Library Cooperative
Street Address
1400 Madison Avenue, Suite 622
City
Mankato
State
MN
Zip Code
56002
Phone
(507)625-6169
Email
dzelen@tds.lib.mn.us
Administered By
Administered by
Location

1500 Highway 36 West
Roseville, MN 55113-4266

Phone
651-582-8200