For Immediate Release: May 15, 2007

Thacher Hurd Mural Celebration
And Summer Reading Kick-Off

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Oakland, CA. – Summer is here and the Oakland Public Library will be celebrating the completion of author/illustrator Thacher Hurd’s colorful paintings on the walls of the Main Library’s Children’s Room and the start of the 2007 Summer Reading Game, “Get a Clue @ Your Library.” The festivities take place on Saturday, June 9, 11 am. The artist will discuss his work and lead a brief tour to showcase his lovable characters, ranging from his signature hound “Art Dog” to an alligator holding a book to an octopus reading to a school of fish! It’s the final stage of the Children’s Room renovation that has resulted in a more colorful and cheerful room with lots of computers and kid-friendly spaces. The mural project was funded by the Zimmer Family Foundation and other sources.

Thacher Hurd is the author of over 20 children’s books, including the bestselling Art Dog, Mama Don’t Allow and, most recently, Moo Cow Kaboom. No stranger to the book world, Hurd is the son of Clement Hurd, illustrator of the classic bedtime story, Goodnight Moon.

After meeting the artist, kids ages 13 and under can sign up to play the annual Summer Reading Game and have a chance to win valuable prizes along the way. Libraries will be hosting free special events throughout the summer to keep your little ones busy, including magic shows, puppet performances, and a host of Harry Potter parties.

For more information about this event, call (510) 238-3615 or visit our Web site at www.oaklandlibrary.org. The Oakland Public Library is a department of the City of Oakland.

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