Celebrate the legacy of Beatrix Potter at the library

Jul. 25—Sierra Marling

On Friday, July 28, at 10 a.m., the Berea branch of the Madison County Library will be hosting a tea party brunch to commemorate the beloved children's author Beatrix Potter.

Potter was known best for "The Tale of Peter Rabbit" and related works.

Born July 28, 1866, in South Kensington, London, she was recorded in history as a woman of various talents.

In addition to being the author of her beloved children's books, she also illustrated them.

She was also known for creating landscape and plant illustrations. Her illustrations and academic work on fungi even led her to be recognized within the mycological community.

"She really is one of the women in history that kind of did things before women could officially do them. I think it's interesting when you get into the history of female authors and look at the doors that they opened that we don't even know," said Katlyn Ramsey, Madison County Library's adult program coordinator.

For the brunch, Ramsey recommends that attendees dress up in period wear — inspired by the late 1800s to early 1900s — or as a character from the stories. She said that this is an all-ages event, as the books are popular with people of all ages.

"People still check them out all the time," she said. "While they are considered juvenile fiction, a lot of adults carry that appreciation for her work into their adult life. The artwork that goes along with her stories, and the stories that she wrote — we still have them in our collection."

While they screen the movie "Miss Potter," which is based on the life of the author, various types of tea will be served in real china alongside small treats, like croissants and cookies. There will also be an area with a backdrop for photos.

Ramsey said that, in an effort to celebrate notable authors, they will also be hosting a murder mystery tea party coming up in September.

No registration is required for the event. The library cannot guarantee that food served at the program will not come into contact with tree nuts, soy, or other allergens.