Library Celebrates Pioneer Life with Readings, Activities

In a 1920 essay for the Missouri Ruralist, author Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote about how important it is to “think for oneself.”

One of the best ways to do that is to become a voracious reader. Wilder, who died in 1957, would no doubt be pleased that her “Little House on the Prairie” books provided much of the inspiration for Simi Valley Public Library’s 2024 Reading Across America Day celebration last month.

The Feb. 24 event, part of a nationwide initiative that promotes the joy of reading among children and adults, featured remarks from local community leaders and appearances by cast members from the “Little House on the Prairie” TV series that was based on Wilder’s books, which described pioneer life in the 1880s. Actors from the show, along with many fans, are coming to Simi Valley March 22-24 to celebrate the TV series’ 50th anniversary.

Readings took place every 10 minutes during the event. Kids took part in pioneer-themed craft activities, too, creating yarn dolls, button necklaces and paper lanterns, said Kimberly Trost, the library’s marketing coordinator.

Trost said it was a joy to bring the community together to celebrate the power of reading.

“As we reflect on the success of this event,” she said, “let us continue to nurture a culture of reading in our community, inspiring future generations to embark on their own literary adventures.”