As the United States prepares to commemorate America 250, how can we celebrate the nation's history while also making room for reflection, honesty, and meaningful conversation?

This week on Book Lounge by Libby, Cameron Walpole, Associate Director of Interpretation and Public Programs, and Callie Hawkins, Executive Director of President Lincoln's Cottage in Washington, DC, join the show to explore how their organization is approaching America's 250th anniversary with thoughtfulness, curiosity, and a commitment to telling a fuller story of our shared history.

The conversation dives into Abraham Lincoln's enduring legacy, why President Lincoln's Cottage remains such an important place today, and how books help us better understand both the past and the present. Then, for a fun twist, Cameron and Callie recommend books they think President Lincoln would have loved reading if he were browsing a library today.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a Lincoln admirer, or simply looking for thought-provoking nonfiction and historical fiction recommendations, this episode offers fresh perspectives on American history, civic engagement, and the power of reading.

For more info, check out: https://www.lincolncottage.org/

Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!

Book recommendations:

Cameron’s Titles:

Differ We Must – Steve Inskeep

Macbeth – William Shakespeare

Wonder – R.J. Palacio

Callie’s Titles:

Joyful Anyway – Kate Bowler

You Better Be Lightning – Andrea Gibson

James – Percival Everett

Everywhere Still – MH Clark

Joe’s Titles:

Feeding Ghosts – Tessa Hulls

A Manual for Cleaning Women – Lucia Berlin

Separation of Church and Hate – John Fugelsang

Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title
00:00:23 Welcome and introductions
00:02:23 What is President Lincoln’s Cottage?
00:22:56 Our recommended reads
00:51:08 Final Thoughts and Outro

Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy.

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We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!

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