Kalamazoo Public Library Celebrates 48th Annual Mary Calletto Rife Youth Literature Seminar

Contact: Jill Lansky, JillL@kpl.gov

October 30, 2025

Kalamazoo, Mich.—Kalamazoo Public Library will host the 48th Annual Mary Calletto Rife Youth Literature Seminar on November 14, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., online. This free seminar features award-winning authors and illustrators Loren Long, G. (Greg) Neri, Lisa Wheeler, and Emmy Kastner, with special guest speaker Gabriel Giron, executive director of Speak It Forward.

“This seminar speaks to the library’s long and consistent history of supporting the youngest readers in our community and those who work with them,” said Michael Cockrell, director of KPL. “By bringing together librarians, educators, daycare professionals, parents, caregivers, and others to hear from notable youth authors and youth-focused professionals, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect and grow together. I encourage anyone interested in youth literature and building a stronger community through reading to register and join us for this special day.”

The Youth Literature Seminar is a long-standing tradition at Kalamazoo Public Library, honoring the legacy of children’s librarian Mary Calletto Rife. A champion of connecting children with the joy of reading, Mary’s vision continues to guide this annual event. Each November, the seminar brings award-winning authors to Kalamazoo to inspire, engage, and celebrate the power of story.

This presentation will be streamed live, and will not be recorded.

Established in 1860, Kalamazoo Public Library serves more than 124,000 residents through five locations and outreach initiatives, offering extensive collections, programs for all ages, and specialized resources. Recognized nationally for innovation—including Library Journal’s 2002 National Library of the Year—KPL continues to thrive, thanks to strong community support and voter-approved funding.

Read more at: kpl.gov/youth-literature-seminar/

Jill Lansky | Youth Literacy Specialist
Kalamazoo Public Library | CEN
315 S. Rose St. | Kalamazoo, MI 49007
(269) 553-7885