EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (L.E. PHILLIPS MEMORIAL PUBLIC LIBRARY PRESS RELEASE) – The L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library in downtown Eau Claire invites the community to participate in a series of engaging events this January, celebrating the One Book, One Community initiative. This year’s One Book, One Community book selection, A Council of Dolls by Mona Susan Power, delves into Native American heritage and storytelling—themes explored in the following events featuring Ho-Chunk storyteller Andi Cloud.
Why winter storytelling? For many Native American tribes, winter is storytelling season—a time of reflection when animals are hibernating, and traditional work subsides. These events honor that tradition, offering opportunities to connect with Ho-Chunk culture and explore its significance.
EVENT LINEUP
For All Ages: Ho-Chunk Harvest – A Storytelling Event Tuesday, Jan. 21 | 6–7:30 p.m. | Learn about the Ho-Chunk year, moons, and cultural practices, including farming, foraging, and nomadic life. Registration required.
For Kids: Those That Are Above, Those That Are Below Wednesday, Jan. 22 | 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. | Explore the twelve Ho-Chunk clans and their roles through storytelling and a family tree mapping activity. Registration required.
For Adults: Ho-Chunk Artistry Workshop Wednesday, Jan. 22 | 5:30–7:30 p.m. | Dive into Ho-Chunk artistry, including regalia, beading, and basketry. Participants will create Black Ash baskets. Registration required.
For full details and registration links, visit www.ecpubliclibrary.info/onebook.
About the Presenter: Andi Cloud, a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation, is known for her storytelling and cultural advocacy. She previously served as Madison Public Library’s inaugural Storyteller in Residence in 2021.
About One Book, One Community: This initiative fosters dialogue on social justice through a shared reading experience. Events surrounding A Council of Dolls aim to inspire understanding and action on issues affecting the Chippewa Valley.
Funding support comes from Wisconsin Humanities, with grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities. The event is co-sponsored by the Friends of L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, Mayo Clinic Health System, and the Chippewa Valley Museum.
Copyright 2024 WEAU. All rights reserved.