The South Carolina State Library prides itself on creating programs designed to help under-served populations across the state. And, during the months of April and May, the South Carolina State Library offers a fine arts creative outlet for the blind and visually impaired.
The Library's Talking Book Services Student Art Gallery features artwork created by 37 blind or visually impaired South Carolina students. The artworks are prominently displayed on the first floor, showcasing the artistic abilities of elementary, middle, high, and home schooled students.
Nine students, chosen by a State Library staff vote, will receive awards during an awards ceremony and reception April 17, 2018 starting at 11:00 a.m. State Library Director Leesa Aiken will announce one of the art pieces for permanent display in the library facility. The Talking Book Services Student Art Gallery exhibit is just one of several programs the State Library organizes to make sure all of South Carolina's residents get their chance to shine!
This year's award ceremony will feature a talk by multi-award winning author/illustrator and national/international speaker
Kathryn Otoshi. The State Library received a
2018 Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Visit Award from the
Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) to fund Otoshi's visit.
Otoshi is best known for her character-building book series,
Zero,
One, and
Two. She visits schools across the country to encourage kids to develop strong character assets, and helps teachers find customized, creative methods to engage students through art, reading, and the power of literature. Her latest books,
Beautiful Hands and
Draw the Line (Roaring Brook) ask key questions about connecting, reaching out, and how we build community with each other.
Denise Lyons, South Carolina State Library Deputy Director said of Otoshi, "She is wonderfully engaging, and her work speaks volumes. I believe that she would be able to inspire a visually impaired audience with a strong, empowering message."
