A range of programs will be hosted in March by the Santa Clarita Public Library for the second annual “One Story, One City.”

The “One Story, One City” program is an initiative to encourage city-wide discussions and promote reading across all ages through one story. The program promotes a sense of unity and community by way of literature.

The event is sponsored by the Friends of the Santa Clarita Public Library, with support from Barnes & Noble.

This year’s selection is “Mary Coin” by Marisa Silver. Mary Coin is a fictional tale based on the iconic depression era “Migrant Mother” image taken by Dorothea Lange in 1936.

Set in California, and following several generations, the story follows a struggling woman who flees the Dust Bowl; a female photographer finding her passion; and a present-day history professor sifting through family possessions.

Two children’s books, which complement the themes in “Mary Coin,” have been selected: “Esperanza Rising,” a book about a young Mexican girl who comes to 1930’s California after her family falls on hard times, and “Our California,” a picture book about the state’s history and attractions.

Both books are written by award-winning California author Pam Muñez Ryan.

To further the experience of “One Story, One City,” many free programs will be offered throughout the month of March by the Santa Clarita Public Library.

Participants are invited to meet the author of “Mary Coin,” Marisa Silver, at a free author event on Saturday, March 12 at 7 p.m. at the Newhall Library. Silver will discuss her inspiration for “Mary Coin” and answer audience questions. Books will be available to purchase on site.

Award-winning illustrator of the picture book “Our California,” Rafael López will host an illustration demonstration open to all ages on Saturday, March 19 at 1:30 p.m. at the Valencia Library. Books will be available for purchase on site and López will be signing books after his presentation.

Residents can enjoy a unique opportunity to take in a city-sponsored art exhibit “Essence of the Moment” while learning more about photographer Dorothea Lange, courtesy of a special presentation by a “Women in Time” interpreter from the local chapter of the American Association of University Women. The exhibit is on Saturday, March 5 from 5 – 7:00 p.m. at the Old Town Newhall Library.

Participants are also invited to a special screening of the Dorothea Lange documentary, “Grab a Hunk of Lightning,” punctuated by special commentary from an award-winning local photographer.  The screening will take place on Tuesday, March 22 from 5:45 – 7:45 p.m. at the Canyon Country Library.

In addition to these events, the library is also offering multiple opportunities to engage with other book lovers through book discussions, and special programming for adults, children and teens themed to the 1920’s through 1940’s setting of “Mary Coin.”

These events include a JAM Session featuring live swing music, an ARTree family history photo folio craft workshop, a genealogy workshop with a focus on the 1930s and much more.

For more information about these events and to find full programming details for “One Story, One City,” please visit the website or contact the Santa Clarita Public Library at (661) 259-0750.

Ed. Note: The following article is a news release provided by the city of Santa Clarita.