On Thursday, November 12, 2026 from 2-3:30pm on Zoom and streamed to our Kingsley Room, join us for a virtual program and learn more about the history of nursery rhymes and fairy tales.
Many of the nursery rhymes and fairy tales we know and love have surprising—and sometimes dark—histories. This fascinating lecture explores the origins of classic children’s stories and rhymes, revealing their roots in historical events, political satire, and folk traditions. Discover how these tales evolved over time, what they originally meant, and why they continue to enchant audiences of all ages.
Historian Valerie Gugala has been studying Abraham and Mary Lincoln for as long as she can remember. Her interest in the Lincolns led her to an interest in the Presidents, First Ladies, and their families. She and her husband have traveled to many Presidential Libraries across the country, and they aim to visit all of them in the next few years.
Like all Southbury Public Library programs, this program is free to attend and open to anyone regardless of town of residency. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Southbury Public Library. Registration is required. Zoom invitation links will be sent via email on the day of the program. Please visit the link below for more information and to register.
Registration Link:
Zoom https://www.southburylibrary.org/event/zoom-origins-nursery-rhymes
In Person https://www.southburylibrary.org/event/person-origins-nursery-rhymes