by Alexis Rohlfing, Head Editor, INALJ New Hampshire
We Wish You a Merry Bloomsday, and a Happy Book Year!
The holidays are upon us, and while you may be snuggling in with a toddy for another viewing of Charlie Brown Christmas or It’s a Wonderful Life, have you ever thought about all the fun book and literacy holidays that are out there? Who wants to limit celebrations to a small part of the year– there are many, many literary holidays out there, but these are a few of my favorites.
Winnie the Pooh Day, January 18 – everyone’s favorite teddy bear has his own holiday as well. January 18 is A.A. Milne’s birthday and a great day to take a break and read about that willy nilly silly old bear.
Robbie Burns Day/Night/Supper, January 25 – No matter what you call it, Robbie Burns day celebrates the great Scottish poet with food and poetry. Don’t forget the haggis!
National Poetry Month, April – a month to raise awareness of poetry and role that poetry plays in our literary history. One of the main activities is National Poetry Writing Month (NaPoWriMo) during which people will write poetry in addition to reading and sharing poems.
National Library Week, April – Hey, even we have a holiday! Don’t forget to celebrate your coworkers and other information professionals.
International Children’s Book Day, April 2 – celebrated on Hans Christian Andersen’s birthday, ICBD is a celebration of children’s literature and promoting books with kids.
International Book and Copyright Day, April 23 – celebrated in April because of the anniversary of death for several literary giants, UNESCO sponsors this day to both promote reading and raise awareness for protection of intellectual property. Most countries have their own National Book day in connection with UNESCO’s international day.
Towel Day, May 25 – For those who know that 42 is the ultimate answer, Towel Day is a day that commemorates Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy and the works of Douglas Adams.
Bloomsday, June 16 – A celebration of James Joyce on the day that his Ulysses takes place. The best place to celebrate is probably Dublin, so that you can relive the novel with other fans. There are several Stateside and international celebrations as well.
Hobbit Day, Sept 17 and Tolkien Week – Celebrating The Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings, Hobbit Day is Bilbo and Frodo’s birthday, and Tolkien Week is the week it falls in. There are usually lectures or parties, not to mention food (as any hobbit would require!)
National Novel Writing Month, November – maybe you’re more of a novel person? NaNoWriMo dares you to write a 50,000 word novel during the month of November, with the main goal being to simply put pen to paper and create.