
A play by Rachel Bublitz
Journey into the hills of Eastern Kentucky with The Book Women, a play about the courageous Pack Horse Librarians of the 1930s that braved rugged terrain to bring books—and hope—to remote Appalachian communities.
Looking for Lilith takes The Book Women on the road this summer with performances that highlight three unique “routes” featured in the full-length play—each offering a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of these pioneering librarians.
The Louisville Free Public Library is hosting 9 “route” performances at branches throughout the system, along with a full-length play performance at the Main Library in August. Here’s the schedule:
Route 1
Della Harlow leads a skeptical New York Times reporter through the mountains, challenging his assumptions about rural life and the strength of the women who serve rural communities.
Performances
- South Central Regional Library
Monday, June 30, 6 PM - Main Library
Monday, July 28, 6:30 PM - Highlands-Shelby Park Library
Tuesday, July 29, 3:30 PM
Route 2
As Josephine Jolly prepares to leave her route, reluctant trainee Sissy Mae discovers the profound impact of the traveling librarians, while witnessing firsthand the struggles of mountain families with little access to healthcare.
Performances
- Newburg Library
Wednesday, June 11, 6 PM - Jeffersontown Library
Saturday, June 28, 10:30 AM - Northeast Regional Library
Sunday, July 20, 2 PM
Route 3
Erma Frey finds herself followed by a persistent young reader, revealing the deep hunger for knowledge, and the harsh realities of poverty among the children of Eastern Kentucky.
Performances
- Fairdale Library
Tuesday, June 3, 3 PM - Newburg Library
Wednesday, July 23, 6 PM - Southwest Regional Library
Saturday, July 26, 2 PM
*No registration required.