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Kitsap Regional Libraries will soon add famous pieces of art to its collection.
The nine branches of the library system are among the more than 26,000 schools and libraries that will be receiving "Picturing America" material as part of an educational art-based history initiative sponsored by the National Endowment for the Humanities.
The program, "Picturing America," began in January and is providing schools and public libraries with high-quality reproductions of some of America's most recognizable artwork, in different mediums, to be used in educational outreach programs. The grant is giving local libraries the opportunities to extend their reach beyond the racks.
"When people think of libraries, they only think of books," said Susan Rosapepe, community affairs manager for KRL. "We are so much more than that."
Kathleen Wilson, Port Orchard branch manager, applied in late March for all nine branches to receive the grant. The art kits are scheduled to arrive in September, with each branch receiving 40 pieces. "Picturing America" brings art directly to students and community members who may not be able to experience an art hub like Seattle.
"The scope of the grant is huge," Wilson said. "It is really limitless."
Although the program is aimed at students, Wilson plans to use the grant at her branch to benefit all age groups.
"I would like to see it used in programming for adults," she said.
"Talk Time," an adult-based weekly event for non-native English speakers to improve their language skills, will use the art pieces as conversation starters.
The library will also use the art as part of its monthly "Art-a-Palooza" program where children study a particular artist or piece and create own project based on what they observe.
Wilson said that being able to see the pieces, each about 2 feet by 3 feet, on display is the most effective way for the community to experience culture through art.
"I think the main point of the grant is telling American history through great works of art," Wilson said. "Seeing these works of art in these large formats is so much more impressive than seeing them in a book."
This is a corrected version of the original story.
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