Established in 1919 by visionary forces from the world of publishing, libraries and (really!) the Boy Scouts, Children’s Book Week is the oldest established celebration of literacy in the country. Administered since 1944 by the Children’s Book Council, the celebration features activities in libraries and bookstores and has been promoted over the years by a wide variety of posters and fliers created by some of the most talented graphic artists and children’s illustrators in the country. Because of the limited duration of each year’s events, most of these materials are regarded as ephemeral and are disposed of following the week’s proceedings.

This original 6 x 22-1/2” color flier by the children’s illustrator Adrienne Adams (The Story of Holly and Ivy, Thumbelina, A Woggle of Witches) is folded in half (for mailing) as issued, and is in Fine condition. The 1959 season of Children’s Book Week featured the slogan, “Go Exploring in Books.” Here, a pith helmeted stork shares a book with a buddy.