Image: Sophie Blackall © 2011. Transit poster commissioned by MTA Arts for Transit (detail).

As the public services librarian in the Museum's Thomas J. Watson and Nolen libraries, I love having the opportunity to develop programs for children, teens, and adults that connect the libraries' collections to art in the Met's galleries. Visitors are often unaware that the Museum has libraries, and they are particularly surprised to learn about Nolen, which is open to readers of all ages. I hope visitors will find that our libraries are useful not only as research centers but as sources of inspiration and discovery.

People are often interested in hearing about the careers of authors and illustrators. How did they come to do what they do? What moves them? What are their struggles? Hearing these people's stories can be quite inspiring. Therefore, when developing library programs, I always look for presenters whose passion and creativity is evident in their work and who are excited to share their enthusiasm with others. When a presenter is excited about what he or she does, the audience can sense the intensity, and the positive energy is contagious. Younger audiences are often especially inspired to think, "Hey, maybe I can do this!"

I am particularly excited about an event taking place at the Museum this Saturday, July 28—a presentation by the illustrator Sophie Blackall. I have been a fan of Blackall for a number of years. For me, her illustrations delicately capture a person's individuality and the interactions between people in ways that are both intimate and whimsical. I recently saw a poster by Blackall in a New York City subway car, which prompted me to think that there might be a new audience interested in learning more about her. As luck would have it, she lives in Brooklyn and was thrilled when I asked her to speak at the Met!

I hope you'll join us this Saturday to hear Blackall talk about her journey as an illustrator, her work in various formats, and exciting upcoming projects.

Upcoming Event
Free Lecture
An Evening with Illustrator Sophie Blackall
Saturday, July 28, 6:00–7:30 p.m.
Bonnie J. Sacerdote Lecture Hall, Uris Center for Education Show location on map
Free with Museum admission

Related Links
Thomas J. Watson Library
Nolen Library in the Ruth and Harold D. Uris Center for Education