From the Director: Woodneath Press Launches New Title on January 26

Telling stories and sharing ideas is a central part of what makes us all human. A few years ago, I wrote an article for Library Journal and co-authored a book called The Purpose-Based Library. I really enjoyed both projects, and it was exciting to share my ideas. However, this year, I just completed a new project that, in many ways, is even more exciting than my previous writing projects. 

As you likely know, 2021 marks the bicentennial of Missouri’s statehood. There are many ways to observe and celebrate this occasion, including participating in MCPL’s Winter Reading Challenge. A group of my friends and colleagues thought that a community writing project would be a fitting way to recognize this milestone. If we could identify a Missouri-focused topic, explore it in depth, and then examine its time, setting, and influence, it would be a great way to celebrate Missouri’s birthday.

After much hard work by many contributors, including MCPL’s Woodneath Press, which published the final product, I am excited to announce that on January 26, 2021, this community writing project will be made available to everyone as an anthology titled The Will of Missouri: The Life, Times, and Influence of Alexander William Doniphan. I was proud to serve on the editorial board of this project alongside many esteemed individuals, including Missouri’s Deputy Attorney General, Jeremiah Morgan.

I hope you will join us for the virtual book launch of The Will of Missouri on January 26 at 6:30 p.m. on The Story Center’s Facebook page. The book is exactly what we envisioned it to be—a community writing project that shares the stories of this highly influential Missourian from the early days of the state’s history. After the program, you will be able to purchase or borrow the book.

I hope you enjoy our contribution to the Missouri Bicentennial and are able to join us on January 26. Do you and your friends have a Missouri story to tell? The Bicentennial is a great excuse to research and chronicle people and places that have been important to Missouri’s history. Maybe you need a little help telling your Missouri story? If so, there are many great programs at The Story Center to help get you started.

Steven V. Potter
MCPL Director and CEO