Learn to write beautifully at Milner Library, January 23

There is an art to handwriting. From Etsy to Pinterest, custom calligraphy and handmade signs, invitations, address stamps, decorations and more seem to be everywhere you look. Milner Library wants to help you learn to write beautifully.

National Handwriting Day is January 23 and to celebrate, Milner will offer activities and a workshop revolving around the art of handwriting. School of Teaching & Learning Librarian Julie Derden has a passion for penmanship.

“I value penmanship and beautiful writing,” Derden said. “I think students will have fun trying out brush and calligraphy pens, and we’ll have a banner where everyone who stops by can sign their name to commemorate National Handwriting Day!”

Starting at 11 a.m. on floor 2, all are invited to join in the fun by handwriting a postcard to send to their friends and family, practice their John Hancock on our 2019 National Handwriting Day poster, practice different forms of calligraphy, and even learn better ways to write on a whiteboard. Stop by anytime 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

At 7 p.m., Derden will be hosting a workshop on the tips and tricks for teaching handwriting.

“Handwriting was an integral part of my elementary curriculum, and we learned the Zaner-Bloser method for manuscript and cursive,” Derden said. “I think it’s still an important skill, as is modeling it by the teacher. Writing on a whiteboard takes a little practice to get it legible and straight. We will have stations for exploration and practice.”

The 7 p.m. workshop will take place on floor 6 of Milner Library does require registration. Space is limited.

In addition, Milner will host a Handwriting Exhibit on display for guests to view from January 14 to January 28, 2019. Visit Special Collections on floor 6 and get up close and personal with famous and historical handwriting examples. Visit Special Collections and interact with this exhibit Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m.–noon and 1–4 p.m.; Tuesday from 9 a.m.–noon, 1–4 p.m., and 5–8 p.m.; or Friday from 9 a.m.–noon.

Mark your calendars and be sure to celebrate National Handwriting Day with Milner Library on Wednesday, January 23! Visit Library.IllinoisState.edu for more information.