Celebrating the Statue of Liberty’s 140th Birthday: Practical program ideas for libraries and schools

# Why this anniversary matters for libraries and schools

On October 28, 2026 the Statue of Liberty reaches the 140th anniversary of its dedication. That date falls within America 250, offering a natural entry point for curriculum, storytimes, and community programs. The anniversary is an opportunity to make the statue's history and symbolism approachable for children and families through hands-on, creative, and multilingual activities.

# Quick program formats that work

• Birthday party: a simple, family-friendly event with balloons, coloring pages, crafts, a read-aloud, and optional virtual field trip. Run as a single event or as a passive program that builds through October and culminates on the 28th.

• Writing prompt or contest: ask patrons or students to write a poem for a new pedestal. Restricting submissions to short forms like haiku can simplify judging and invite broader participation.

# Program ideas with concrete steps

• Set a date near October 28 and advertise for families. Provide simple craft stations: crown-making, torch collage, or postcard design. Offer a brief read-aloud and a photo-op.

• Announce categories and a deadline. Offer a prompt: "If a new pedestal were dedicated today, what message should it carry?" Display finalists in the library and invite community voting.

French-language or Franco-American tie-ins

• If your community includes French speakers, include French songs, stories, or authors in programs. Partner with local French-speaking organizations or schools to broaden reach.

Virtual field trip and image resources

• Use online collections and Dreamscape or animated adaptations (for example, a Dreamscape animation tied to HER RIGHT FOOT) to show the statue's history when an in-person field trip isn't feasible.

# Program scaffolding and logistics

• Partnerships: consider historical societies, French cultural groups, DAR contests, or school contests to extend reach and resources.

The author prepared students for this anniversary through the DAR Junior American Citizens Contest and classroom activities that combined books, pop-culture references, and open-ended prompts about freedom. That approach—pairing read-alouds with creative response—translates well to public library programming and school events.