“MIFFY AT THE LIBRARY” NATIONAL TOUR TO PROMOTE LITERACY

Art & Word Exhibit Available FREE to Libraries Across the Country
ÐÏࡱácaregivers, “Miffy at the Library” is based on the world-renowned children’s book character, Miffy, created by Dutch artist Dick Bruna. “Miffy at the Library” is available free of charge to public libraries across the country by Mercis bv, the publishing company founded by Dick Bruna. Subsequent stops for the exhibit include Detroit, MI; Atlanta, GA; and Memphis, TN.

Marja Kerkhof, Managing Director of Mercis bv, said, “The local public library is a place where people can freely indulge their imagination and joy for learning. We have created ‘Miffy at the Library’ to encourage preschoolers in developing that joy.”

“Miffy at the Library” will include 20 limited edition prints of Dick Bruna’s artwork with descriptive passages discussing his work and process. The artwork will be mounted on display panels, which will be configured to serve as an inspirational backdrop for programming such as story time, art and craft sessions. In this setting, preschool children will learn to appreciate the balance of art and words as well as develop their imagination and creativity.

Children and their parents will be encouraged to sign up for a library card-the first to do so will receive a complimentary Miffy book, courtesy of Miffy’s U.S. publisher Big Tent Entertainment. Mercis bv will provide programming, craft, and marketing materials. Nearly $250,000 will be granted by Mercis bv to support the “Miffy at the Library” initiative. Mercis bv has successfully launched Miffy library literacy tours in Holland, Japan, Australia, and most recently the United Kingdom.

Libraries have always been important to Dick Bruna. As a boy, he often visited his local library in Holland to gaze at art books and read stories, mostly about animals. Based on his experience, he believes libraries are a vital conduit to learning. He exhibits his art in places accessible to children – preferring libraries over traditional galleries.

Miffy ( HYPERLINK "http://www.miffy.com/" www.miffy.com) is an adorable white rabbit whose simple stories, vivid colors, and bold outlines have enchanted children for almost 50 years. Miffy views the world through the eyes of a preschooler and shares in their wonder of the everyday. Written and illustrated by Dick Bruna, MIFFY and FRIENDS books have been translated into over 40 languages and have sold nearly 85 million copies worldwide. Her all-new 3D TV program, “MIFFY and FRIENDS,” is one of Noggin’s most popular morning shows. Big Tent Entertainment is the publisher of MIFFY and FRIENDS in the United States and the licensing partner for the brand.

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