Did you know that Dec. 16 of this year will mark Jane Austen’s 250th birthday?
Join the Henrietta Hankin Branch Library this fall to celebrate this well-loved author with many Jane Austen-themed activities and programs you can take part in at the Henrietta Hankin Library!
You can begin on Sept. 15 by picking up a Jane Austen Bingo card at the Henrietta Hankin reference desk, or download it from the event page here. Once you get Bingo, return your card to the reference desk, and you will be entered into a drawing for a raffle prize. Winners will be drawn on Dec. 22.
On Saturday, Sept. 20, from 1-4:00 PM, join the library for a special waltz class that brings the elegance and charm of Jane Austen’s world to life. In partnership with Fred Astaire Dance Studio, this event will introduce participants to the graceful steps of the waltz — an iconic dance featured in Austen’s beloved novels. No experience necessary, no partner required, and all ages are welcome.
Jane Austen fans will not want to miss a presentation on Sept. 22 by a life member of the Jane Austen Society of North America, Paul Savidge. In “The Enduring Popularity of Jane Austen,” Savidge will discuss the rise of Austen both as a recognized key contributor to the novel form and as a worldwide cultural phenomenon inspiring legions of devoted admirers. Savidge will be bringing a first edition copy of Pride and Prejudice.
On Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 10:00-11:30 AM, channel your inner Jane Austen in a hands-on workshop, “Quill and Ink Letter Writing,” celebrating the elegance of the Regency era. Learn the timeless art of letter writing with a traditional quill and ink. All materials provided — no experience necessary! This event is for adults aged 18 years and up.
The following Tuesday, Sept. 30, from 1:00-2:30 PM, you are invited to make a tussie-mussie! A tussie-mussie is a small flower arrangement that was popular in the Victorian and Regency eras. Using silk flowers and greens, you will be able to create your very own bouquets. Silk flowers, floral wire, and ribbon will be provided, but registrants are asked, if they can, to bring a pair of wire cutters.
On Wednesday, Oct. 8, step into the Regency era for a charming tea party inspired by the world of Jane Austen. Enjoy tea with light refreshments, period music, and spirited conversation. Feel free to dress in your finest Austen-inspired attire (optional) and test your knowledge with Jane Austen trivia and quotes. Perfect for fans of Jane Austen and all things witty and romantic. For adults aged 18 years and up.
On three evenings in November (the 4, 11, and 18), the library will hold special screenings of Death Comes to Pemberley, a three-episode star-studded adaptation of crime-writer P.D. James’ bestselling whodunit based on the style and characters of Jane Austen’s 1813 novel Pride and Prejudice. Henrietta Hankin Branch Library will show one episode each week on the new big screen (and comfy chairs!) in Small Conference Room A.
Our string of events will wrap up on Dec. 15 with a Holiday High Tea from 6:00-7:30 PM. The Bingo challenge will end on Dec. 16, and participants will have until Dec. 21 to turn in their cards. Winners of the Bingo raffle will be drawn on Dec. 22.
Register for any of the programs discussed above here.
Learn more about the Chester County and Henrietta Hankin Branch Libraries and its mission to provide informational, educational, and cultural services to the residents of Chester County so that they may be lifelong learners. The Henrietta Hankin Branch Library is located at 215 Windgate Drive, Chester Springs.
