History
The First Festival
Truman State is not the first school to come up with an idea like the Children's Literature Festival. They were inspired by others in Missouri and Kansas who already put such a program into action, garnering their help to instate one of their own.
When Truman's festival first began, it was hosted by the Division of Language and Literature. The year was 1983, and 6 authors were invited: David Melton, Sandy Asher, Peter Z. Cohen, Robert C. Lee, Mary Shura, and Rosa Woolridge.
Why the festival tradition was started can be summarized by this quote from a 2009 article in the Truman Review:
"The primary objective of the festival is to stimulate the interest of children in reading and literature. The festival will bring authors from the region and throughout the country together with area children, teachers, librarians, educators, and interested citizens to celebrate children's literature and to share insights and experiences in writing, illustrating, reading and appreciating this genre."
On Hiatus
There have been a few years, unfortunately, during which the Children's Literature Festival was unable to be held. It ran continuously for a reported 21 years, although it is true the second festival was not held until 1985. There was no festival in 1984.
In 2004, the festival was discontinued due to budget restraints. Money was raised through a Children's Literature Festival Fund in 2007, which brought the festival back into full swing by 2009. The host switched from the Division of Language and Literature to its own special committee during this time.
The COVID-19 pandemic cancelled many gatherings after its arrival, including the Children's Literature Festival. 2020, 2021, and 2022 were unable to see the familiar interaction of authors and students on Truman's campus.
To keep the festival afloat, some donors over the years have provided financial support. The Missouri State Library Spotlight on Literacy Grant responded to an application for $10,000 towards the 2011 festival, and other recent sponsors are acknowledged on the lit festival website. Such generosity ensures children in the Kirksville area can continue to access the unique experience of hearing from published authors of their favorite books.
To offer your own support to the festival, visit truman.edu/giving.
