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   Meet the creators of How the Birds Got Their Song at 11 library events across north-central Minnesota, November 16–21, 2026.

   The Kitchigami Regional Library System is pleased to announce a unique opportunity for community members to meet author Travis Zimmerman and illustrator Sam Zimmerman during a special storytelling tour November 16–21, 2026.

Sam Zimmerman

Travis Zimmerman

   A treasured story passed down through Travis Zimmerman’s family, How the Birds Got Their Song shares traditional knowledge connected to Grand Portage. Travis Zimmerman is a proud descendant of the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. The story is presented in both English and Ojibwemowin, honoring the importance of language, culture, and the sharing of Indigenous knowledge across generations.

   Illustrator Sam Zimmerman brings the story to life through vibrant illustrations that showcase his distinctive artistic style and deep appreciation for birds and other feathered creatures.

   This engaging program invites audiences to explore the story’s origins, learn about the importance of presenting stories in a bilingual format, and discover how the illustrations help bring the narrative to life for readers.

   Participants will enjoy an introduction to Ojibwemowin and Ojibwe culture, a reading of How the Birds Got Their Song, a closer look at the artwork featured in the book, and an opportunity to ask questions and interact with the author and illustrator.

   The visit offers a meaningful opportunity for readers of all ages to experience the connections between storytelling, language, art, and cultural tradition while learning directly from the people who brought this treasured family story to the page.

   The storytelling tour will visit several area libraries Nov. 16-21, including Cass Lake Community Library on Wednesday, Nov. 18, from 1-2 p.m.; Longville Public Library from 3:30-4:30 p.m.; Walker Public Library on Thursday, Nov. 19, from 10:30-11:30 a.m.; Pine River Public Library from 5-6 p.m.; Crosslake Area Library on Friday, Nov. 20, from 2-3 p.m.; and Pequot Lakes Community Library on Saturday, Nov. 21, from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

   The Kitchigami Regional Library System invites community members, families, educators, and readers to attend a program near them and take part in this special opportunity to celebrate Indigenous storytelling, language, art, and cultural knowledge.

   For additional information about the tour, please contact the Kitchigami Regional Library System or your local participating library.

   This free legacy program is funded in part or in whole with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008, which dedicated funding to preserve Minnesota’s arts and cultural heritage and is open to the public. families, educators, and young readers are encouraged to attend.

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