An important piece of our Cambridge City culture and history heads to Washington this summer. The Smithsonian American Art Museum sent a letter announcing an exhibition entitled “The State Fair” to mark the occasion of the United States semiquincentennial in 2026 at the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery. Renwick Gallery curators requested the loan of Mary Frances Overbeck’s vase with deer, ca 1939. This vase is one of the entries that won Mary Frances Overbeck eighteen “First Premium” blue ribbons from 1938 – 1941 at Indiana State Fairs. “These works are pivotal to the exhibition because they are significant examples of ceramics made by a woman for a state fair competition,” wrote Stephanie Stebich of the Smithsonian. “They tell the story of Mary Frances Overbeck and her extraordinary success in pottery with her sisters. They would be included in a gallery to highlight Overbeck’s importance in American ceramics history and also her influence at the Indiana State Fair,” Stebich explained. Mary Frances Overbeck’s vase with will be on display at the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery from August 22, 2025 through September 7, 2026, and then will return to the Overbeck Museum at our library. This lovely vase was a gift to the library by Arthur and Kathleen Postle. You can visit our wonderful Overbeck pottery and fine art collection at the library and wish the vase with deer safe travels!

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Both book clubs this month will discuss Miss Morgan’s Book Brigade by Janet Skeslien Charles, a captivating historical novel about the power of books and the bravery of those who fight to share them. Set during World War I, the story follows Jessie Carson, an American librarian who travels to France to bring books and literacy to soldiers on the front lines. Inspired by true events, this novel is a tribute to the transformative power of reading and the resilience of those who believe in its importance. Evening Book Club meets Tuesday, April 22, at 6:30 PM, and the Senior Center Book Club meets Wednesday, April 23, at 1:00 PM. New members are always welcome! Call 765-478-3335 or stop by the library to reserve a book today.

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Every Wednesday at 11:00 am, Mother Goose on the Loose brings joy to toddlers and caregivers with stories, rhymes, songs, and fun. We will be introducing some new story readers, so join us for a great way to engage your little ones in early literacy and socialization.

 

Gamers' Guild will meet on April 7, 14, 21, and 28 at 4:00 pm for more Dungeons and Dragons adventures. Designed for ages 9-17. We are hoping to unveil an AI Dungeon Master soon, so now is the time to join the crusade!