The Mazza Museum at the University of Findlay will celebrate Children’s Book Week from 11-11:30 a.m. on May 1-5. A different book and a correlating activity will be featured each day. These events will be free and open to the public.

Children’s Book Week originated in the belief that children’s books and literacy change lives. Established in 1919, it is the longest-running national literacy initiative in the country. Schools, libraries and bookstores host events to celebrate a love of reading.

“Developing a passion for books and reading is so important for kids,” said Heather Sensel, education coordinator at the Museum. “The idea with these activities is to bring the books to life for them so they’ll take home a drive to keep reading.” At the end of each session, guests will receive a take-home activity. Here’s the schedule:

Monday, May 1: The Mitten written and illustrated by Jan Brett. Guests will be able to participate in a story play. To accompany the story, the Museum has a giant, 6-foot mitten.

Tuesday, May 2: The Three Wolves and the Big Bad Pig written by Eugene Trivizas and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. The activity will be a puppet show.

Wednesday, May 3: The Napping House written by Audrey Wood and illustrated by Don Wood. Guests will see the story unfold before their eyes in the form of an interactive skit.

Thursday, May 4: We’re Going on a Bear Hunt written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. After the reading, guests will participate in a bear hunt of their own through scenery set up in the Museum.

Friday, May 5: Footloose with music and lyrics written by Kenny Loggins and Dean Pitchford and illustrated by Tim Bowers. Amanda Sprague, director of Music Together Findlay and Lauralee VonLehmden, registered Music Together teacher, will lead guests in a song and dance routine.

The Children’s Book Week series of events at the Mazza Museum is free and open to the public without registration. Those with questions may contact the Museum at 419-434-5521.

Founded in 1982, the Mazza Museum at the University of Findlay celebrates the joy of storytelling through the original art of picture books using education, exhibits, events and artist visits. Giving world-renowned artists a platform to share their creative process, the Museum invites people to explore the art within the story through its programs for children, adults and educators. As a unique learning and development opportunity, Mazza enhances the academic experience for all students at the University as they pursue meaningful lives and productive careers. The Museum, located in the Virginia B. Gardner Fine Arts Pavilion, is home to more than 11,000 pieces of artwork from picture books, making it one of the largest and most diverse collections of picture book art in the world. For information on events, tours and more visit conference.mazzamuseum.org.