Live! At the Library in April: Circus Arts, Science, Poetry, and Music
The Library of Congress invites visitors to experience a dynamic lineup of performances, discussions, and interactive events this April.
The Live! At the Library series showcases a blend of circus arts, scientific exploration, poetry, and Hawaiian music.
Highlights include a performance by Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey artists, an evening with U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón, and a science-themed Discovery Night.
A Month of Culture and Exploration at the Library of Congress
Live! At the Library events provide a unique opportunity to engage with literature, history, and the arts in an interactive setting. Visitors can enjoy extended evening hours every Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. while exploring exhibitions, attending performances, and experiencing the Main Reading Room.
April’s schedule includes a celebration of circus arts, an evening of hands-on science experiments, and discussions with nonfiction writers.
Music lovers can attend a live performance by Hawai’i Island’s Kohala Mountain Boys, and poetry enthusiasts can join Ada Limón for a special lecture marking the end of her historic term as U.S. Poet Laureate.
Circus Arts at the Library
On April 10, the Library will honor the donation of circus arts materials with a special event featuring performers from Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey.
Visitors can experience live acts from The Greatest Show on Earth while learning about the history and cultural significance of circus arts.
This event takes place in the Library’s Great Hall and offers a rare chance to see professional circus performers in an intimate setting.
Discovery Night: Where Science Meets Literature
On April 3, the Library will host Discovery Night, an event combining science and storytelling. Noted nonfiction writers Carl Zimmer, Mindy Weisberger, and Rebecca Lemov will discuss their latest books, which explore topics ranging from the history of oxygen to parasitic insects.
Following the discussion, visitors can participate in book-themed science experiments led by the Library’s Preservation experts.
A Conversation with Ada Limón
Poetry enthusiasts can attend a special event on April 17 featuring U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón. She will deliver a lecture reflecting on her three-year appointment and the role of poetry in contemporary society.
The event, held in the Coolidge Auditorium, will conclude with a book signing session, allowing visitors to engage with one of the nation’s most celebrated poets.
Traditional Hawaiian Music: Kohala Mountain Boys Live
Also on April 10, the Coolidge Auditorium will host a performance by Hawai’i Island’s Kohala Mountain Boys.
Led by Boots Lupenui, the group is dedicated to preserving the musical traditions of the Kohala region. Their performance will feature a selection of songs that capture the spirit and history of Hawaiian culture.
Live! At the Library: Visitor Experience
- Events take place Thursday evenings from 5 to 8 p.m.
- The Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building and exhibitions remain open during event hours.
- Happy hour drinks and snacks are available for purchase in the Great Hall, offering a scenic view of the U.S. Capitol.
April Events at a Glance
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Discovery Night: Science & Literature | April 3 | Coolidge Auditorium |
| Circus Arts Celebration | April 10 | Great Hall |
| Kohala Mountain Boys Performance | April 10 | Coolidge Auditorium |
| Ada Limón: Poetry Lecture | April 17 | Coolidge Auditorium |
Exploring the Library’s Exhibitions
Visitors attending Live! At the Library can also explore a range of exhibitions showcasing rare collections and historical artifacts.
The newly opened “The Two Georges: Parallel Lives in an Age of Revolution” presents the personal papers of George Washington and King George III.
Other exhibitions include a tribute to Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Mary Oliver and an interactive display of Thomas Jefferson’s original library.
Plan Your Visit
Live! At the Library events offer a unique way to engage with history, literature, and the performing arts.
Whether attending a circus performance, listening to live Hawaiian music, or participating in a poetry discussion, visitors can enjoy an enriching cultural experience.
Tickets are available at loc.gov/live.
Sources: Library of the Congress.
